

Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Annie Sargent
Planning a trip to France? Join Us in France is the podcast for you! On this podcast we have conversations about our trips to France, chat with tour guides, share tips on French culture, the basics of French history, explain how to be savvy traveler in France and share our love of French food, wine and destinations in France.
You won’t want to miss out on all these great conversations about one of the most beautiful countries on earth! Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. And if you're planning your own trip soon - start listening now so you're ready to connect to France on a deeper level. Bon voyage!
You won’t want to miss out on all these great conversations about one of the most beautiful countries on earth! Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. And if you're planning your own trip soon - start listening now so you're ready to connect to France on a deeper level. Bon voyage!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 11, 2023 • 1h 42min
France Bootcamp 2023 Report, Episode 445
The Join Us in France 2023 language bootcamp held in Toulouse was big hit. In this France Bootcamp 2023 you'll hear participants explain why they had such a great time. Listen to find out what everyone loved so much! #LearningFrench, #ToulouseAdventures, #CulturalImmersion, #TravelExperience, #HistoricalSites, #FrenchCuisine, #LanguageLearning, #LifeEnFrancais, #FrenchCulture, #FrancophilesJourney, #ImmersiveTravel, #FrenchBootcamp Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Next week on the podcast Podcast supporters Annie and Elyse Morning school times A very full Bootcamp week Beth Robinson Tamar Mays Kim Loftus Aric Dreesen Emmitt Dreesen Maxine Schmitz Maree Roberts Louise Rudnicki Kelly Moore Katherine Tipper John Peters Jim Woolridge Carole Wolfe Neu Copyright

Jun 4, 2023 • 56min
D-Day Anniversary Visit to Normandy, Episode 444
D-Day Anniversary Visit to Normandy - A Trip Report with Phil Roberson on Join Us in France Travel Podcast Whether you're a history buff, a Francophile, or simply a traveler seeking profound experiences, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of WW2 events that shaped our world. So, sit back, relax, and let's set off on this commemorative journey together, to honor the past, and embrace the resilience of the human spirit. Here we go, en route to Normandy with Phil Roberson who’s been to Normandy many many times! In this episode we discuss where to pickup a rental car if you're not sure about driving in Paris. We talk about beautiful towns where you can stop between Paris and Normandy. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast’s Magazine Font-de-Gaume Newsletter Podcast supporters Feedback from Anne Spitler Phil, Mr. Normandy Visiting D-Day sites when anniversary celebrations are underway Normandy gets VERY busy around June 6 every year Booking a hotel in Normandy when visiting during a D-Day celebration Bigger cities closer to the historical sites Caen, Le Havre, Cherbourg Bayeux What to expect to see everywhere Airplanes D-Day invasion celebrated as the start of liberation How do you prepare for a trip to Normandy Local events, tourist office The annual ceremony at the US American Normandy Cemetery Walking tours of the paratrooper landing areas Finding a restaurant Driving in Normandy from Paris Abbaye de Jumièges Merville Battery The Marmottan museum The wine museum, near the Eiffel Tower The Marquis de Lafayette Thank you Patrons! Back from Bootcamp Two ways to get my tours Copyright

May 28, 2023 • 45min
Flight Path: Charting the History of Aviation in Toulouse, Episode 443
In episode 443 of the Join Us in France podcast, host Annie Sargent converses with Elyse Rivin of Toulouse Guided Walks about the history of aviation in France, specifically focusing on Toulouse, where both of them live. The discussion covers Toulouse's significant role in aviation history, with much of the country's aviation history taking place there, including the creation of Airbus. They discuss the different aviation-focused attractions in Toulouse Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast No magazine section Podcast supporters Next week on the podcast Elyse and Annie about Aviation and Toulouse Toulouse home of Airbus Places to visit in Toulouse – Airbus Industry Aeroscopia Museum Aeronautic museum of Montaudran The Cité de L’Espace The Hotel des Grands Balcons Beginning of aviation Hot air balloons Clement Ader Pierre-George Latécoère: The man who made flying an industry 1883-1943 Used in war The move to commercial flights Emile Dewoitine: The creator of fighter planes Aeropostale – Air Mail Women in aviation Marker Why is all of the aviation industry still in Toulouse The Caravelle Airbus Plans for the future Space research in Toulouse Copyright

May 21, 2023 • 42min
Mediterranean Cruise, a Trip Report
In the 442nd episode of the "Join Us in France" podcast, host Annie Sargent engages guest Helen Talley-McRae in a discussion about her Mediterranean cruise experience. The cruise, offered by Viking Ocean Cruises, embarked from Rome and concluded in Tarragona, Spain, stopping at French ports such as Marseille and Sète. Helen selected this journey to celebrate a milestone birthday after her 2020 travel plans were postponed due to the pandemic. Helen highlights both pros and cons of cruising. Positives include the ability to visit several locations quickly, simplified logistics, excellent onboard service and facilities, and an all-inclusive package. Drawbacks, however, encompass substantial upfront costs, superficial visits due to limited shore time, potential dependence on organized excursions, occasionally disappointing food quality, and unexpected itinerary changes due to weather. The journey included stops at numerous locations, with Sète, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Monaco emerging as Helen's favorites. In Sète, she enjoyed a local guided tour and the chance to interact with locals. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence captivated her with their rich history and local markets, while Monaco surprised her with its traditional old town, contrasting with the known glamour of Monte Carlo. Despite some limitations, such as an industrial port at Marseille and missing out on certain attractions due to time constraints, Helen appreciated the overall experience and expressed interest in future river cruises. She believes this type of cruise is ideal for individuals desiring a resort-style vacation or those who might be visiting Europe for the first time. After her memorable trip, Helen is excited about her upcoming visit to family in Paris and Brittany.

May 14, 2023 • 55min
Jean Jaurès and Castres his Birthplace, Episode 441
Listen to today's episode of the podcast exploring the life of Jean Jaurès, a pivotal French socialist leader, born in Castres, France. We delve into his early life, political career, peace advocacy, and enduring impact. Discover how Castres nurtured his principles and how it honors his legacy today. Unearth the story of Jaurès, rooted in Castres but echoing throughout France and beyond. #Podcast, #History, #JeanJaurès, #Castres, #France Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the Podcast The Magazine Part of the Podcast: Superhosts Podcast Supporters The France Bootcamp Annie and Elyse about Jean Jaurès and Castres City of Castres The Goya Museum The Jean Jaurès Museum La Part Des Anges Restaurant Markets in Castres Circuit Court Market A Town of Art and History. Castres surroundings The famous child of Castres Jean Jaurès was brilliant at the age of 10 Sent to Paris to continue the studies, Louis-le-Grand Philosophy major Political Career Becomes Interested in Social Issues Lost his position as deputy Member of the government of Toulouse His ideas The Dreyfus affair Anti-communist and anti-anarchist. The law of the separation of Church and State In 1914 Jaurès is assasinated World War I Thank you Patrons Patreon app on your phone Personal Itinerary Consultant Service GPS self-guided tours Airbnb and Superhost How to become a Superhost Next week’s episode Copyright

May 7, 2023 • 40min
Budget Family Travel in France, Episode 440
Bonjour and welcome to a new episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast! Today, Annie Sargent and James Olsen explore a topic that many families will find both valuable and exciting: budget family travel in France. If you're seeking an affordable yet memorable French vacation with your loved ones, look no further! #budget, #travel, #podcast, #familytravel, #slowtravel Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast Podcast supporters New Patrons, Thank you! Slow Family Travel, trip report When did the trip take place? 90 days in the Schengen space The gîte system in France Airbnb vs gîte France with with your kids is different than France without your kids South Normandy Same price for locals as for visitors Small town markets Favourite activities – Collioure Beach Kayaking in the Dordogne Favorite food The pears in Normandy The Salvador Dali Museum, Figueres Spain Mont-Saint-Michel Baillou, The Tapestry Loire Valley Lessons and Mistakes Speeding tickets and driving Don’t be too timid Learn to negotiate Don’t take things too personally Copyright

Apr 30, 2023 • 51min
Revolutionary Feminist: Exploring the Life and Legacy of Olympe de Gouges
Welcome to Join Us in France, the travel podcast that takes you on a journey through the hidden gems of France. In today's episode, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin explore the life and legacy of a revolutionary feminist, Olympe de Gouges. Born in 1748, Olympe de Gouges was a French playwright, political activist, and feminist who fought for the rights of women during the French Revolution. Despite being ahead of her time, she was often criticized and ostracized by her male contemporaries. She remained steadfast in her beliefs and became one of the most iconic figures of the French Revolution. Click play and join us as we delve into the fascinating life of Olympe de Gouges because there is no questions that she had a big impact on the world of feminism and human rights. Olympe de Gouges: a Revolutionary Feminist Olympe is most famous for her Declaration of the Rights of Women, but she was also very involved in promoting the rights of black people. She was born in Montauban, a lovely city in the southwest of France that we discussed in episode 348 of the podcast Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast: Revolutionary Feminist: Exploring the Life and Legacy of Olympe de Gouges Podcast supporters The magazine part of the podcast: Bonjour and yes timing matters! Annie and Elyse about Olympe de Gouges Who was Olympe de Gouges? Born in Montauban Married at 17 The young widow and her son Starting in the theater 1780 Olympe de Gouges writes plays She is denied entry into the Pantheon In defense of people of color Olympe de Gouges’s writtings Declaration of Human Rights and Citizenship The rights of women Article 1 Woman is born free and lives equal to man in her rights Article 2 Property, security and resistence to oppression Article 3 The state has power to make decisions, not males Article 4 Male tyranny Article 5 The laws of nature cannot be prevented Article 6 Women must be equally admitted to all honors, positions and public employment Article 7 & 8 & 9: Women must obey the law and not the whim of their husband Article 10: If woman can go up the scaffold she shoud also be allowed to speak in Parliament Condemned for treason Article 11 about paternity Article 12 All women should be equal, not just upper class women Article 13 Equal employment for women Article 14 Women can audit the books Article 15 Men in public office need to be accountable to women in public office Article 16 & 17 Separation of powers and property belonging to both sexes “too manly” Places to go visit Her heritage dispersed internationally Thank you, patrons Prepare for your trip to France Saying Bonjour Not to interrupt? Timing matters when saying Bonjour This week in French news Personal update Copyright More episodes about French history #podcast, #france, #history, #feminist, #revolution

Apr 23, 2023 • 57min
In Search of Josephine Baker in France, Episode 438
Are you thinking about going in search of Josephine Baker in France? Welcome to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, where we bring you stories, tips, and insights to help you plan the perfect French getaway. I'm your host, Annie Sargent, and today we're in for a real treat as we're joined by our fabulous guests, Adrienne and Michelle. In this episode, we'll embark on an exciting journey as we follow in the footsteps of the iconic Josephine Baker. Our trip will take us through the romantic streets of Paris and the picturesque Dordogne region. So, sit back, relax, and let us whisk you away on this thrilling adventure. Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Magazine Part of the Podcast Looking for Josephine Baker When Did They Visit and Why Together? Started in Paris Château Des Milandes Rent an electric car Charging Issues How was Château Des Milandes? The Docents Enjoyed the Impression of Josephine Le Gouffre de Padirac Lunch at the Château Not Big Fans of Foie Gras Sarlat Sarlat Accommodations Hotel Plaza Madelein in Sarlat Marqueyssac A few days in Paris Museum d’Orsay Favorite Things in Paris Little Africa Village fashion tour Breakfast at the Four Seasons Hotel San Regis Things They Would Do Differently Planning More Travels? Thank you Patrons New patrons Patreon app on your phone Preparing a trip to France? Hire Annie to be your Itinerary Consultant Itinerary Service Review from Richard Miller Richard Miller about the Itinerary Review service Self-guided tours The 10 things that you need to do when you’re preparing a trip to France 1. Set a budget 2. Choose Your Travel Period 3. Research Destinations 4. Check Visa Requirements 5. Plan Your Itinerary 6. Book YourFlights 7. Secure Accommodations 8. Familiarize Yourself with Local Transportation 9. Learn Basic French Phrases 10. Purchase Travel Insurance Help your friends Next week on the podcast Copyright

Apr 16, 2023 • 1h 2min
Baron Haussmann and the Transformation of Paris, Episode 437
Welcome to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, where we explore the rich history, architecture, and culture of France's most iconic cities and regions. In today's episode, we'll be focusing on Georges-Eugène Haussmann and the transformation of Paris in the 19th century with Elyse Rivin of Toulouse Guided Walks. About Baron Haussmann and the Transformation of Paris Haussmann, commonly referred to as "Baron Haussmann," was appointed by Emperor Napoleon III to modernize Paris. His extensive urban renewal project aimed to address the city's issues, such as overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and inefficient transportation. In this episode, we'll examine Haussmann's key contributions to urban planning, the controversies and criticisms of his methods, and the long-term effects of his work on Paris. We'll also discuss how Haussmann's efforts influenced the development of other cities around the world. Join us as we uncover the story of Baron Haussmann and the significant impact he had on shaping modern Paris, right here on the Join Us in France Travel Podcast. Magazine Part of the Podcast Renew your passport early! When do you need to reserve restaurants in Paris? Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: Haussmann and the Transformation of Paris Podcast supporters Newsletter Magazine Part of the Podcast Haussmann and the transformation of Paris Opera Garnier Medieval Paris Haussmann’s ancestors Haussmann becomes the Sous-Préfet of Paris Napoleon’s plans to clean up, to beautify, to enlarge and to modernize Haussmann becomes Prefet of Paris Napoleon wants a small park in every arrondissement Rue de Rivoli, first boulevard to be finished Haussmann’s rational aesthetic The Human Cost of the Haussmann Transformation of Paris What Emile Zola and Jules Ferry thought of these changes Some of Haussmann’s projects Did he design wide streets so the military could get around? Considering the huge costs Haussmann is fired Haussmann’s influence outside of Paris Renovations would have happened no matter what Thank you patrons Video about cooking mushrooms Driving in France video Your next journey to France – Personal Itinerary Consultant VoiceMap app tours US Passports Travel Question of the Week – Do you need to reserve Restaurants in Paris? Share the podcast trailer Next week on the podcast Copyright

Apr 9, 2023 • 55min
Four Days in Strasbourg, Episode 436
Welcome to today's episode of the Join Us in France travel podcast. In this episode, we'll be discussing a four-day visit to the city of Strasbourg, France with Marion Hill and Brenda Orozco. Strasbourg is located near the border of France and Germany along the Rhine River, which has resulted in a unique blend of both cultures. The city has a rich history and is known for its architecture and diverse cultural offerings. Our itinerary will cover key attractions such as the Cathedral and the picturesque district of La Petite France. Join us as we explore the various aspects of Strasbourg and share practical tips for making the most of your stay in this interesting city. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: Four days in Strasbourg Powering the Podcast: The Role of Your Support in Sustaining Our Show Magazine part of the episode: free museums for kids Interview Why did you choose Strasbourg? What did you enjoy the most? About Jet Lag Do not underestimate jet lag! The hotel downtown Strasbourg Favorite attractions in Strasbourg The Astronomical Clock It’s best to be inside the Cathedral when the clock goes off Strasbourg, a Christmas town Good dolar value Chez Yvonne Sauerkraut / Choucroute Wine and food tour Boat ride to see the European Parliament Petite France Bus tour Strasbourg to Colmar The time in Paris Thank you, patrons New patrons My hedgehog odyssey Preparing a trip to France? VoiceMap App Tours Are Paris Museums Free for American Kids or Not? This week in French news Books Annie’s been listening to TV shows Annie’s watching Preparing the bootcamp Listener feedback Show notes and transcript Next week on the podcast Copyright