Join Us in France Travel Podcast

In this journey through the literary landscape of France, we venture into iconic independent bookstores, stroll through charming book villages, and feel the lively atmosphere of France's renowned book festivals. We also **delve** into the spirited debate on reading versus listening to books—a topic that resonates with book lovers worldwide. It's clear that in France, the love for books is more than a pastime; it's a deeply ingrained part of the culture, a cherished tradition that continues to thrive. From the bustling shelves of Parisian bookstores to the tranquil lanes of Montolieu, books hold a special place in the French heart. Thank you for joining us on this literary expedition across France, a true haven for bookworms.  Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine part of the podcast Episode Colson Whitehead in Toulouse The largest bookstore complex: Gilbert Joseph Shakespeare and Company Some bookstores also published books Librairie Jousseaume, Galerie Vivienne Librairie Delamain, the oldest independent bookstore in Paris Bilingual Bookstores La Librairie Gourmande LGBT+ Bookshop, Les Mots a la Bouche L’Amour du Noir Artazart L’Écume des Pages Bookstores outside of Paris MOLLAT in Bordeaux Bookstore in Toulouse Godon in Lille Librairie Maupetit, Marseille Le Bal des Ardents, Lyon Kléber, Strasbourg Le Trouve Tout Du Livre Le Trouve Tout du Livre, Montolieu The Village of Books Book festivals and fairs Le Marathon des mots Festival International de la Bande Dessinéex Is listening to a book the same as reading? Thank you Patrons Zoom meetings with Patrons Zoom meeting times for Patrons Weather in France late August About the Join Us in France podcast Going forward Itinerary Calls are going to be on Zoom Olympic News Medical bills while in France La Carte Vitale Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about French culture  

Today's trip report is about the adventures of a solo woman in Marseille. This woman is called Eva Jorgensen and she has some great recommendations for anyone visiting Marseille.She puts to rest the idea that a solo woman in Marseille would run into many problems because the city is "dangerous". It's not more dangerous than any other large city! This is what Eva had to say about this: As a solo woman traveler, going to any large city, I would just kind of be aware of those areas I want to stick to and which areas I want to be more careful around or maybe not go to. And, um, and I, And so I did that, I was, it was perfectly fine, I felt perfectly safe the entire time. If you don't visit the "projects" you'll be fine. BTW that's also true in Chicago! Don't go to the 15e arrondissement in Marseille. You're in luck there are no tourist attraction there. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: Adventures of a Solo Woman in Marseille Podcast supporters The magazine part of the podcast Annie Sargent and Eva Jorgensen interview The light and the topography in Marseille What inspired your trip to Marseille? Great walks (even if it’s hilly!) The Bus system in Marseille Is Marseille a dangerous city? Bompard Neighborhood Cosquer Cave The Notre Dame de la Garde Basilique Tourist trains Friendly driver Marseille has a rich history Culture and Museums in Marseille Places Eva enjoyed in Marseille La Petit Nice Little ports. Anse de Maldorme and the Anse de Malmousque The Vauban neighborhood La Bonne Mere is also a French expression of surprise Maison Empereur. L’Ideal, restaurant and epicerie Chez Mina, traditional Moroccan place The Tuba Club (untested but it looks great!) Plage du Prado, better for families Describe the people who would enjoy Marseille Food in Marseille Local food and wine recommendations Villa La Coste, a luxury resort by Aix-en-Provence Did you make any mistakes, did anything went wrong? Difficutlies with pick up and drop off points for scooters Driving in the Marseille city centre, NOT recommended! Scolded for talking on the train Thank you, Patrons New Patreon reward: Zoom Meetings Itinerary Consult Service Feedback about the VIP experience from Joe O’Reilley VoiceMap Tours available Learning Spanish as a mature adult: it takes dedication! TIps for learning French at any age Flying taxis will be in operation around Paris by the 2024 Olympics and going forward Next week on the podcast: France for bookworms Copyright

Are you considering a move to France or planning an extended stay in this country? In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the real reasons why you might—or might not—want to come to France. We explore the nation's complex tax system, explaining how it operates and whether French citizens truly feel they get their money's worth. What about the infamous French bureaucracy? Bring your best French, because it's as intricate as it is quintessentially French! If you're worried about strikes affecting your vacation plans or the challenges of finding parking in urban areas, we've got that covered too. But it's not all warnings and caveats. We'll also discuss the evolving aspects of French life, such as improving unemployment rates, a younger generation embracing English, and even a solution to the age-old problem of dog waste on sidewalks. Whether it's the rigid labor market, rising social tensions, or the distinctive slow pace of life that intrigues you, this episode provides an unbiased look at the unique blend of charm and challenges that France offers. We tackle myths, reveal surprising truths, and present a comprehensive overview that will leave you well-informed and perhaps even more curious about life in France. Whether you're an expat finding it tough to integrate or simply a Francophile pondering the high cost of living in Paris, tune in to gain valuable insights into what it truly means to live, work, and play in France. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The magazine part of the podcast Annie and Elyse 1. High taxes and social charges Income tax, impôt sur le revenu. VAT, a consumption tax Corporate tax, Impôts sur les societés. Taxe foncière and taxe d’habitation Wealth tax, impôt de solidarité sur la fortune immobilière Inheritance tax and Gift taxes Capital gains tax 2. Bureaucracy and complex administrative processes 3. Strikes and labor disputes disrupting daily life 4. Challenges in learning the french language 5. Perceived unfriendliness or indifference towards foreigners. 6. High cost of living in major cities, especially Paris. 7. Traffic congestion and limited parking in urban areas. 8. Limited job opportunities in certain sectors 9. Difficulty integrating into French Society for expats 10. Air pollution in larger cities 11. Rigid labor market and strict labor laws 12. Slow pace of life may frustrate some people. 13. Stores and businesses closed on Sundays and Holidays High unemployment rate, particularly for youth 15. Strikes and protests affecting public transportation and services 16. Rising social tensions and political polarization 17. Limited customer service culture compared to some other countries 18. Dog waste on sidewalks in some urban areas 19. Inconsistent business hours or long lunch break 20. Occasional language chauvinism making it difficult for non-French speakers Thank you, Patrons New patron rewards Preparing a trip to France? The Bonjour Service VoiceMap App Tours Olympics 2024 in Paris Next week on the podcast Copyright  

In this episode of the podcast with my guest Terri Brault, we discuss Canadian WW2 Normandy sites you can visit. Canadian forces were heavily involved in the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, which marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany. The Canadian 3rd Infantry Division, along with the 2nd Armoured Brigade, landed at Juno Beach, a stretch of coast located between Sword and Gold beaches. Facing heavily fortified German defenses, they experienced fierce resistance, but their courage and determination saw them overcome these formidable obstacles. By the end of the day, Canadian forces had penetrated deeper into France than any other Allied force, a testament to their discipline and valor. Canadian troops also played a significant role in the subsequent Battle of Normandy, a grueling two-month campaign to liberate the region from German occupation. They were central to Operation Totalize, an offensive designed to break through German defenses south of Caen, a strategic city that witnessed some of the war's bloodiest conflicts. Moreover, Canadian soldiers were victims of one of the war's most infamous atrocities at the Abbaye d'Ardenne, where 20 prisoners of war were executed by the 12th SS Panzer Division, a crime later prosecuted as a war crime. Today, the Canadian War Cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer, where about 2,000 soldiers are laid to rest, serves as a somber reminder of the ultimate sacrifice these brave men made in the pursuit of freedom and peace. Their bravery, tenacity, and sacrifice significantly contributed to the successful Normandy campaign, marking a pivotal turn in the course of World War II. Their legacy lives on in the form of numerous memorials, museums, and preserved historical sites in Normandy, and their heroic efforts continue to be honored and remembered by both Canadians and the international community.  Let's talk about the places in Normandy you can visit to honor their sacrifice and valor. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Bonjour Itinerary Service The Magazine part of the podcast Canadian Heroes of Normandy with Terri Brault Seeing the Water Lilies at The Musee d’Orangerie Giverny No speeding tickets Rouen Going too cheap on the hotel Bayeux D-Day Sites, Longues-sur-Mer Arronmanches Juno Beach, Courseulles-sur-Mer Canada House, Bernières-sur-Mer Beny-sur-Mer Cemetery Abbaye D’Ardenne Chateau de Cruelly Battle of Normandy museums in Bayeux, Caen, and Juno Beach Centre. Bayeux Tapestry Mont St. Michel Ducey Don’t pack too much into your trip Hotel des Arènes, on Rue Monge, Walking some of Annie’s VoiceMap tours What she learned about France: Do and Don’t Do Warnings Why Normandy in September? Annie’s itinerary review service Orange travel sim cards Travel journal before leaving Thank you, patrons Getting ready for a trip to France The Olympic Village Next week on the podcast Copyright

In today's episode of the podcast, Why Life in France is Wonderful, Annie and Elyse discuss the 20 things that make life in France unique and attractive. We don't think France is perfect, but it's wonderful and we share why we think so. Fear not, we will also publish an episode in a couple of weeks about why life in France is perhaps a little bit awful as well. Stay tuned!   Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast New Bonjour Service Annie and Elyse: Wonderful or Awful to live in Frace? 1. France has a rich history of cultural heritage. 2. France has world class cuisine and wine. 3. High quality healthcare system 4. Beautiful and diverse landscapes 5. Excellent public transportation. 6. Strong focus on work life balance 7. Renowned art and architecture 8. Numerous UNESCO Worlds Heritage Sites 9. High standard of living and social welfare. 10. Multicultural Society with a wide variety of traditions 11. World-leading fashion and design industry 12. High quality education system 13. Beautiful cities and charming villages 14. Mild climate with distinct seasons 15. Vibrant art scene including film, music, and theater. 16. Strong sense of national pride and unity 17. Access to fresh, locally sourced produce 18. Outdoor recreational opportunities 19. Proximity to other European Countries for easy travel 20. Rich literary and philosophical tradition Thank you, patrons Apartment renovations Learning Spanish Tour de France show on Netflix Paris Olympic Village Preparing a trip to France? Next week on the podcast Copyright

This episode with Bernadette and Steven Fernandes is all about letting the day happen and taking the back roads. They've been visiting France for years and mostly avoid big cities because they like the small things that give flavor to the experience. We share a few laughs and talk about cannelés, rillettes, going to the wrong Roquefort, enjoying a couple of chateau accommodations, going into the chicken coop, sharing a lunch break with a horse, the way to enjoy a day in Marseille AND two speeding tickets. We keep it real on this podcast! This episode contains great recommendations for accommodations listed on the episode page. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast The magazine part of the podcast Podcast supporters From Bordeaux to Marseille The stages of the trip Moving out too soon in each place? If they could do it again… The Monolithic Church tour When was the trip? Some of their favorite things Bayonne Lourdes Andorra Surprise Rillette Discovering Canneles Fresh eggs from the chicken coop Mirepoix Saint Pierre la Mer Abbaye de Fontfroide Narbonne Marseille The Cosquer underground painted caves. Food shopping at Intermarche The speeding tickets Canal du Midi Level airline and Air Transat Renting and driving a car in France Thank you Patrons Itinerary Service – NEW Bonjour Service Tipping is changing in France Next week on the podcast Copyright   #SaintEmilionSips #BayonneBound #LuzSaintSauveurAdventures #AndorraEscapades #RillettesDelight #CannelésCravings #FreshEggFrenzy #BagesDiscovery #FontfroideAbbey #NarbonneExploration #ElectricBoatRentals #AirTransatAdventures #LevelAirlineJourneys

The Aude department, located in the Occitanie region of France, offers a diverse and captivating landscape. It is home to notable sites such as the medieval village of Lagrasse, known for its historic charm and association with viticulture. The Lastours Castles, perched atop rocky spurs, bear witness to the region's rich medieval history and the Cathar legacy. Aude is also renowned for its wine production, with vineyards stretching across the picturesque countryside, producing a variety of wines, including Carignan, Syrah, and Grenache. Along its Mediterranean coast, the department boasts stunning coastal areas, including the town of Gruissan, with its sandy beaches and charming old town. Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine part of the podcast: Riots in the news again Starting a new series of episodes on select departments Starting with the Aude Department Aude Department, Geography Cool things to see Montolieu, The Village of Books Lastours Fanjeaux Lagrasse Villerouge-Termenès Rennes-le-Château The Coast Gruissan Leucate Bages A gouffre and a grotto, Natural sites Massif de la Clape and The Blue Hole The Sentier Cathare Le Canal Du Midi Passapaïs La Voie Verte de la Montagne Noire La Voie Verte de l’Aude Cathar Castles The wine Le Carnaval de Limoux Thank you Patrons Getting ready for your trip to France? Itinerary consultations GPS self-guided tours Riots in France, is it safe to travel? Copyright #AudeExploration, #HistoricalHeritage, #WineCulture, #CoastalBeauty, #MedievalWonders, #Lagrasse, #LastoursCastles, #GruissanBeach, #VineyardAdventures, #FrenchEscape, #DiscoverAude, #CulturalTreasures, #ScenicLandscapes, #ExploringFrance, #HiddenGems

In this trip report, you'll hear how Kim Loftus embarked on a captivating treasure hunt in the Loire Valley, tracing the footsteps of Joan of Arc. The journey took her to Chinon, where Joan met Charles VII, and Loches and where she was imprisoned. The Château de Loches stands as a testament to her unwavering resolve. In Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois, Joan acquired her legendary sword, solidifying her divine mission. The village offers a glimpse into her faith. Exploring Chambord, they enjoyed the self-guided tour and activities. Orléans hosts the Fêtes de Jeanne d'Arc, a 10-day celebration honoring Joan's feats, featuring parades and illuminations. Click play and take a trip of your own to the Loire Valley! Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast The Magazine Part of the Podcast Podcast supporters Annie and Kim Welcome back, Kim! Looking for places related to Joan of Arc Every town has a small statue of Joan of Arc (or a plaque) Itinerary review with Annie Chinon Histopads Loches Sainte Catherine de Fierbois Azay-le-Rideau Le Brame de Sologne Food Trucks along the River Chambord Beaugency Orléans, Fetes de Jeanne d’Arc Biking along the Loire trail Jousting on Boats Airport Hotels No more Covid rules Thank you, Patrons Prepare for your trip to France VoiceMap app self-guided tours of Paris Getting tickets for highly sought-after attractions in Paris Paris in High Season What else can you do around Eiffel Tour The Catacombs Copyright  

Get ready for another engaging episode of Join Us in France! This week, my co-host Elyse Rivin and I delve into the captivating story of cinema's trailblazers, the Lumière Brothers. We also discuss Alice Guy, the first woman film director. As we unravel the saga of their groundbreaking inventions and the birth of cinema, Elyse's keen insights illuminate the past, painting a vivid picture of the early days of film and how it has shaped our present. This episode is a must-listen for all film enthusiasts! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Thank you, Patrons! Install the Patreon app Next week on the podcast Annie and Elyse about the Lumières brothers Elyse’s love for movies History of cinema and it’s relationship to France Luc Besson Let’s talk about the beginning Muiberg’s optical illusion Edison’s Kinetoscope Emile Reynaud’s Optical Theater, Illuminated Pantomimes Frères Lumière, The Light Brothers The first “film festival” in Paris The first travel films Next step for Lumière Brothers George Meliès and the first special effects The first political movie The first movie houses and the first cinema studio Destroyed everything they had built Alice Guy, the first woman film director The cabbage fairy film Jesus of Nazareth film The first peplum The Pathé brothers The first sound studio in Europe World War I pauses everything The New Wave Copyright

Join Annie Sargent and Mark Adams in this trip report about the Languedoc-Roussillon area of France. Sometimes overlooked, this part of France is full of hidden gems. Whether it's biking along the Mediterranean or hiking up to Cathar Castles, this trip report explores fantastic experiences. Click play to listen! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast The magazine part of the podcast Podcast supporters Mark Adams trip report: from Perpignan to Marseille What inspired your trip? And why Southern France? Contemplating retiring in France Start in Barcelona Starting the trip in Barcelona Flight to Barcelona Favorite things Mark Adam did and recommends Aigues-Mortes Fête Votive Bike rides Looking into retire in Sète A cruise ship port Carcassonne Canal tour on Canal du Midi VRBO in Carcassonne Collioure Lastours Montpellier Plaza de Comedie and Esplanade Charles de Gaulle Nîmes Marseille Thank you Patrons! Best things listeners have learned from the podcastRelying on public transportation Take a taxi from CDG to Paris The driving in France episode Finding information about different areas of France No speeding in France Restaurant etiquette Confidence to travel Episodes about the Bordeaux area Be polite, say Bonjour! Do not over plan Phil’s list of alternates to the big sites Recommendations on traveling with kids in France and G7 taxi app Navigo Easy card Almost 4 millions listens Copyright