Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Why is 2025 being called Cézanne Year in France? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Celebrating Cézanne in 2025: A Journey Through His Art and Legacy, host Annie Sargent is joined by art historian and tour guide Elyse Rivin to explore the life, work, and influence of Paul Cézanne. Get the podcast ad-free Cézanne was born and died in Aix-en-Provence, and his art is deeply connected to the region. In 2025, the city will host a major exhibit at the Musée Granet, featuring over 50 works by the painter. Even more exciting, Cézanne's long-closed family estate, Jas de Bouffan, is reopening as a cultural center. This makes 2025 the perfect time for art lovers to plan a visit to Provence. Annie and Elyse dig into Cézanne's personal life, his close friendship with Émile Zola, and his unique artistic vision. He wasn't quite an Impressionist, and he wasn't fully modernist either—he created something in between. They also talk about his obsessions with still life painting, especially apples, and his many views of Mont Sainte-Victoire. This episode is a great listen if you're planning a trip to the South of France, are curious about art history, or want to understand why Cézanne matters so much. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for more cultural deep dives, destination guides, and practical travel tips. New episodes every week. Perfect for fans of Provence, French art, museums, and Cézanne's legacy. Whether you're visiting Aix-en-Provence or just love learning about France, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on a painter who changed the art world forever. More episodes about French culture

What happens when a mother, daughter, and best friend set out on a road trip across France to celebrate a milestone birthday? In Celebrating 75 Years with Vanessa Christman, host Annie Sargent talks to Vanessa, a librarian from California, about the trip of a lifetime: Mother-Daughter Celebrating a 75th Birthday in France. Get the podcast ad-free Vanessa planned this adventure around her mom's long-time love of France. They landed at Charles de Gaulle, picked up a rental car, and hit the road. From charming Burgundy villages like Tournus, to the sparkling Mediterranean coast near Martigues, to the lavender-scented hills of Provence and the grand castles of the Loire Valley — they saw it all. Along the way, they visited abbeys, tasted Gigondas wine, created custom perfumes in Grasse, explored markets in Carpentras, and dined at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Ardèche. Vanessa shares what went right (most things), what went wrong (French tacos!), and her top tips for traveling with someone who has reduced mobility. This episode is full of practical travel advice and heartfelt reflections. It's especially helpful for anyone dreaming of a multigenerational trip to France. Subscribe to Join Us in France Travel Podcast for more stories and tips from real travelers. Whether you're planning a special celebration or just love French culture, this one's for you. Table of Contents for this Episode Introduction and Welcome Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine segment Celebrating 75 Years with a French Road Trip Travel Companions and Planning Journey Begins: From CDG to Burgundy Jet lag, app for astronauts App to Help with Jet Lag Exploring Burgundy: Tournus and Beyond Heading South: Provence and the Mediterranean Provincial Markets and Wine Tasting Shipping Wine from the US to France Archaeological Adventures and Unsettled Weather The Experience of Maing Perfume in Grasse Road Trip Games and Roundabouts If You Have a Handicaped Placard You Can Use it in France Exploring the French Countryside Michelin Star Dining Experience The Loire Wine Tasting and French Tacos Charming B&B Stay Travel Tips for Reduced Mobility Personne à Mobilité Réduite – PMR Room Thank You Patrons This Week Paris's Gothic Jewels: New VoiceMap Tour Live Guides Restaurant Recommendations Le Petit Chatelet on 39 Rue de la Bûcherie Le Bistrot des Victoires Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards Le Saint-Regis L'Auberge des Deux Ponts Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about family travel in France

In this engaging conversation, Carol Handel, an Australian blogger specializing in leisurely travel in France, shares her passion for slow travel and cycling. She offers tips on immersing yourself in local culture and reveals the beauty of regions like Provence and the Pyrenees. Carol discusses her journey in creating her blog, French Views, and shares how meticulous planning enhances travel experiences. Listeners will learn about the excitement of experiencing the Tour de France live, renting bikes, and discovering hidden gems throughout Paris.

Have you ever dreamed of leaving it all behind and starting fresh in France? In this episode, "MasterChef's Andrew Prior: From Australia to France," host Annie Sargent chats with Andrew Prior about his incredible journey from Australia to France, his passion for French cuisine, and his time on MasterChef Australia. Get the podcast ad-free Andrew shares what inspired him to make the big move and how he turned his love for French food into a career. From leading food tours to launching his Fabulously Delicious podcast, he gives us an inside look at what it takes to embrace French culture through its cuisine. He also reveals the challenges of transitioning from life in Australia to settling in both Paris and the French countryside. Annie and Andrew swap stories about their favorite French markets, local specialties, and the best ways to experience France through food. They also discuss how seasonality shapes French cooking and why simple dishes like omelets and soupe à l'oignon are timeless classics. If you're passionate about French food, considering a move to France, or just love a great culinary story, this episode is for you. Hit play now and join the conversation! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine segment Introduction and Greetings Andrew's Podcast Journey Moving to France MasterChef Australia Experience Life in the French Countryside Exploring Local French Markets Andrew's Food Guide to Paris Finding Authentic Cuisine in Paris Navigating Tourist Areas for Food The Parisian Picnic Experience Exploring Parisian Bakeries and Cafes Writing Food Tours and Recommendations Cooking French Dishes at Home The Importance of Seasonality in French Cuisine Unique French Ingredients and Dishes The History of Onion Johnnies Preserving French Culinary Traditions Conclusion and Farewell Thank you, patrons New VoiceMap tour in the works French Campsite Experience Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about food in France

Is Béziers really the oldest city in France? In Episode 536: Exploring Béziers, A Hidden Gem in the South of France, host Annie Sargent and guest Elyse Rivin dive into the fascinating history and charm of this underrated destination. Get the podcast ad-free Béziers sits in the Occitanie region, close to the Mediterranean. It has deep historical roots, from Roman times to the Cathar massacre and the winegrowers' revolt of 1907. Its Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire dominates the skyline, offering breathtaking views. The city's streets lead to lively markets, including the recently renovated Les Halles de Béziers, where locals gather to enjoy fresh seafood, cheeses, and wines. Béziers is also famous for the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Nine Locks of Fonseranes showcase incredible 17th-century engineering, still in use today. The Old Bridge, the Church of the Madeleine, and the Jean Moulin Museum add layers of history to explore. Annie and Elyse discuss the city's evolving identity, growing expat community, and efforts to restore its historic center. They also touch on Robert Ménard, Béziers' controversial mayor, and how his policies shape the city. If you're looking for a unique stop in the South of France, Béziers deserves a visit. Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into history, culture, and travel tips! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine segment Introduction and Overview of Béziers Journey to Béziers Béziers: A Medium-Sized City with a Rich History The Appeal of Béziers for Expats Historical Significance and Archaeological Discoveries The Cathar Massacre and Religious History Exploring the City: Landmarks and Attractions Winemakers' Revolt Annie's personal experience in the area The Wine Scandal and Economic Impact Massive Demonstrations of 1907 The Wine Revolt's Lasting Effects French Colonization and Algerian Wine Exploring Béziers: Historical Sites and Canal du Midi Jean Moulin and Béziers' Rich History The Enigmatic Mayor of Béziers Culinary Delights of Béziers Thank You Patrons Zoom Meetings with Patrons New VoiceMap Tours Paris Marathon The European Museum Night The Bordeaux Wine Festival A Celebration of Cézanne The Tour de France Personnal Note Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about the Montpellier area #BéziersTravel, #Béziers, #VisitFrance, #FranceTravel, #TravelPodcast, #JoinUsInFrance, #SouthOfFrance, #LanguedocRoussillon, #CanalDuMidi, #FrenchHistory, #HiddenGemsFrance, #FrenchRiviera, #WineLovers, #ExploreFrance, #FranceTrip, #SlowTravel, #BestOfFrance, #FrenchCulture, #TravelTips, #HistoricalSites

Gina Angelillo, a traveler from New York, shares her memorable anniversary tour through Normandy, Saint-Malo, and Paris. She highlights the stunning ramparts of Saint-Malo and the poignant D-Day beaches, offering insights on renting a car versus using trains. Gina loves the charming marina in Honfleur and indulges in fresh oysters while reveling in Parisian café culture. She also discusses her preference for hotels over Airbnbs, and shares tips for visiting lesser-known museums, like the Rodin Museum, making this adventure a treasure trove of travel inspiration.

Theresa Watkins, an experienced traveler from Kansas City, shares her adventures through Paris, Normandy, and Provence. She offers invaluable tips on planning balanced itineraries and highlights local markets that make journeys memorable. Discover her enchanting stay at Mont Saint Michel and the vibrant markets of Provence, like Roussillon. She discusses the joys of spontaneous travel, including renting cars and indulging in local culture. With tales of playing pétanque and cruising through scenic Calanques, listeners will be inspired to explore France authentically.

Thinking about traveling to France while pregnant? In Discovering Paris and Provins on a Babymoon Adventure, host Annie Sargent chats with Hannah Compton about her unforgettable trip at 30 weeks pregnant. From the bustling streets of Paris to the medieval charm of Provins, Hannah shares her insights, surprises, and tips for expectant travelers. Get the podcast ad-free Hannah and her husband spent eight days in France, splitting their time between Paris and Provins. In Paris, they explored iconic sights like Sainte-Chapelle, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Petit Palais. Hannah describes how friendly and accommodating Parisians were, from offering seats on the metro to helping her skip long lines at attractions. She also shares the joy of café culture, strolling through beautiful gardens, and enjoying a Michelin-star meal at Yam'Tcha. In Provins, they immersed themselves in medieval history, attended a lively dinner show, and discovered charming streets. Hannah explains why Provins is a great weekend destination, especially for families. She also reflects on the ease of train travel and the relaxing pace of their visit. If you're curious about how France accommodates pregnant travelers or want inspiration for your next trip, this episode is packed with useful advice. Tune in for a fun and informative conversation! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine segment Introduction and Greetings Planning the Trip to France Traveling While Pregnant Exploring Provins Medieval Attractions in Provins Experiencing Paris Navigating Paris with Ease Museum Visits and Cultural Insights Saint Chapelle Lunch at Lulu's Cafe Dinner at Yamcha: A Culinary Delight Exploring the Champs Élysées and Arc de Triomphe Petit Palais: A Hidden Gem Saint-Sulpice: The Active Church Eiffel Tower at Night Traveling While Pregnant: Tips and Experiences Favorite Stay in Provins Final Thoughts and Recommendations Thank you Patrons Picard ChatGPT Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about day trips from Paris

Have you ever seen the colorful, playful sculptures near the Pompidou Center in Paris? Those bold and joyful creations are the work of Niki de Saint Phalle, an artist who turned personal pain into vibrant public art. If you enjoy the podcast, consider joining Patreon for early access and ad-free episodes! Your support keeps the show going. Merci ! ✨ In this episode, "Discovering Niki de Saint Phalle: From Personal Struggles to International Fame," Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin explore the fascinating life of this groundbreaking artist. Niki de Saint Phalle came from a wealthy background but faced deep personal struggles, including childhood trauma and strict societal expectations. Instead of letting these experiences define her, she channeled them into art that shocked, inspired, and delighted. Annie and Elyse discuss her early experiments with radical "shooting paintings," where she literally fired a gun at canvases to create explosive works. They also dive into her most famous sculptures, including the Nanas, her oversized, curvy, dancing women that celebrate femininity and freedom. Niki wanted art to be accessible to everyone, so she placed many of her works in public spaces, where people could interact with them. Want to see her work in France? They talk about the Stravinsky Fountain in Paris, her major contributions to museums, and her largest masterpiece, the Tarot Garden in Italy. Tune in to hear how Niki de Saint Phalle challenged the art world, embraced bold colors, and left a legacy of joy and strength. Listen now! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Magazine segment Introduction and Topic Overview Early Life of Niki de Saint Phalle Struggles and Escape Artistic Awakening Rise to Fame: Les Tirs Outsider Artists and "Women's Art" Curvy Women Figures Public Art and Legacy The Iconic Sculptures of Hanover: Les Nanas Niki de Saint Phalle's Public Art The Toxicity of Art Materials Marriage and Artistic Collaboration Political and Social Activism in Art The Tarot Garden: A Monumental Project Legacy and Global Impact Museums that display her work Conclusion: Celebrating Niki de Saint Phalle Thank you Patrons Favorite Restaurants around Notre Dame Paris Updated VoiceMap tour Symbols of Paris Where to Rent a car in Paris Next week on the podcast Copyright

Liz Van Monfort, a seasoned traveler from New Zealand, spent six weeks immersing herself in the wonders of France. She shares her vibrant experiences from Paris to Provence, highlighting the dynamic culture, delicious food, and practical tips on navigating public transport. Liz reveals the joys of home exchanges, budget-friendly meal spots, and the ease of using the Navigo pass in Paris. Her spontaneous side trip to Barcelona and reflections on historical sites like the World War I memorials add depth to her journey. Tune in for invaluable travel insights!