Join Us in France Travel Podcast

In this episode, Regina recounts her captivating month-long exploration of France's hidden treasures in Aveyron, Dordogne, and the Basque Country. Joined initially by her sister and later by her partner, they embarked on an adventure through some of France's most scenic landscapes, medieval towns, and illustrious caves. Regina shares the invaluable insights gained from an itinerary consultation with Annie, highlighting the importance of strategic planning for adventurous travelers. The journey is enriched by visits to "Plus Beaux Villages," where the beauty of France's countryside is on full display. Regina discusses the challenges and rewards of navigating rural France by car, emphasizing the enchantment of driving through less-traveled roads and the logistical nuances of fueling and parking. The episode delves into the cultural experiences of local markets, the delights of French cuisine, and the tradition of enjoying an Apéro. Special attention is given to the selection of accommodations that allow for immersive local experiences, the strategy for visiting markets, and making the most of vacation purchases like a Basque beret. Regina's adventure through cave paintings, including a detailed account of visiting Pech-Merle and Font de Gaume, offers listeners a glimpse into prehistoric art. The episode also covers private tours of vineyards in Gaillac and Saint Emilion, showcasing the diversity of French wines. Closing with personal reflections on the trip, Regina emphasizes the philosophy of "less is more," advocating for depth over breadth in travel experiences. Join us to uncover the rustic charms and hidden gems of Aveyron, Dordogne, and the Basque Country—a journey through France's heartland that promises to inspire and enchant. Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast Podcast supporters No Magazine segment today Next week on the podcast A Visit to the Southwest Les Plus Beaux Villages de France Markets Cooking for themselves Painted Caves La Grotte de Pech Merle Le Gouffre de Padirac Domaine Duffau, Gaillac – Private Winery Tour St. Émilion Driving back country roads Serendipitous discoveries Musée Basque in Bayonne Cahors Rue Daguerre, Paris Less is more: Go for Depth Rather Than Breadth If It’s Time to Eat, Go Eat! Annie’s Walking Tours in Paris Copyright

In this episode Annie and Elyse take listeners on an immersive journey through one of France's most picturesque and historically rich regions. The Lot, known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient villages, and exquisite culinary heritage, offers a deep dive into the heart of French culture and history. We start in Cahors, the Lot's largest city, famous for its fortified medieval bridge, the Pont Valentré, and its unique cathedral. Discover the ancient city's blend of history and modernity, where Roman ruins meet medieval architecture. The episode then transports you to the prehistoric Cave of Pech Merle, one of France's most spectacular prehistoric sites, still adorned with original drawings and carvings. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, voted France's most beautiful village, showcases medieval architecture, stunning views, and an artist's haven, revealing the Lot's ability to inspire creativity across centuries. Meanwhile, Rocamadour, a site of pilgrimage carved out of cliffs, offers a glimpse into medieval spirituality and architectural ingenuity. The journey continues to the Gouffre de Padirac, where an underground river creates one of the country's most spectacular natural phenomena. The episode also highlights Martel, the village of seven towers, and Figeac, the home of the Champollion museum, enriching the narrative with tales of truffle markets, ancient languages, and the quest for knowledge. Listeners will learn about the Lot's contribution to the culinary world, from black truffles and walnut cakes to the renowned Cahors wine. This episode not only explores the Lot's visual and historical treasures but also delves into the tastes and aromas that make the department a must-visit for anyone interested in the essence of France. Exploring the Treasures of the Lot Department is a journey through time, nature, and culture, inviting listeners to discover the Lot's many wonders, from its dramatic cliffs and ancient caves to its medieval villages and gastronomic delights. Join us as we uncover the myriad reasons why the Lot is a jewel in France's crown. More episodes about the Occitanie region Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast Podcast supporters No Magazine segment today Annie and Elyse: Exporing the Lot Department I love it a lot in the Lot The Lot Department Cahors, the biggest city in Lot Department Podcast episodes about Lot Department Lot, the department with the most beautiful villages in France Prehistoric Caves, Pech Merle St Cirq Lapopie Figeac Figeac, home of Champollion and the Museum of Written Languages Rocamadour and Padirac Wine: Cahors Vacation Homes and places to rent Regional Park of the Quercy The Black Triangle of the Quercy Coast Martel, home of the truffle market Carennac Rocamadour The Gouffre de Padirac Martel, Gourdon The food and drink Truffles Goat cheese Walnuts Melon of Quercy Lamb Copyright

In this pivotal episode of Join Us in France, we engage with Patria Perry to bring listeners an indispensable guide on preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics. With the summer's excitement building up, we delve into practical advice and insider tips to navigate the bustling streets of Paris, ensuring a seamless experience whether you're attending the Olympics or simply soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere. The discussion kicks off with a crucial travel tip: walking is king in Paris, especially during the Olympic season. Despite the addition of extra metros and buses to accommodate the influx of visitors, the compact nature of the city makes walking an optimal choice for getting around. We cover the challenges of biking in Paris, including finding drop-off stations and securing bikes at busy venues, and suggest signing up for bike services in advance for those willing to pedal their way through the city. Security measures are a significant focus, with enhanced protocols and the use of drones and AI to ensure safety in secured areas. We discuss the importance of downloading the official RATP Bonjour App and CityMapper for navigating closures, particularly of metro stations near Olympic venues, and provide tips on avoiding pickpockets and staying safe in crowded areas. Lodging during the Olympics presents its unique challenges, from stringent rental rules to the necessity of air conditioning during Paris's hot summer months. We share strategies for booking restaurants and emphasize the importance of proximity to venues over luxury accommodations. Lastly, we touch on the cultural and logistical aspects of Paris during the Olympics, including potential strikes, the significance of the Olympic mascot, and tips for using contactless payment methods for a hassle-free stay. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone planning to visit Paris during the 2024 Olympics, offering a comprehensive guide to enjoying the city's charm amidst the excitement of the world's most anticipated sporting event.   Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Paris Olympics 2024: Navigating the City of Light Podcast supporters The Magazine segment of the podcast: Navigo Pass During the Olympics Patricia and Annie about Navigating Paris during the Olympics Transportation Strategies for the Olympics Bike Rentals Security Measures and Precautions Metro Stations Closed Don’t be an easy target for pick pockets Do not put your feet up on the seats in Metro or Bus Accommodation and Weather Considerations Ice and Dining in Paris Restaurant Reservations and Apps Security Measures and Alerts Lodging and Payment Methods Opening Ceremony and Strikes Thank you, Patrons! Plan a trip to France with Annie Personal Update: Unscheduled trip to Spain Driving to Spain in an electric car Navigo Pass Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about family vacations in France  

In this episode of the Join Us in France travel podcast, we journey with Mike on his solo adventure through the enchanting streets of Paris. Over five action-packed days, Mike immerses himself in the iconic beauty and historical depth of the City of Light. From the towering majesty of the Eiffel Tower to the intricate splendor of the Sainte Chapelle, Mike's journey is a testament to the rich tapestry of Parisian culture and architecture. Guided by invaluable insights from "Join Us in France" and enhanced by the immersive experience of Annie's VoiceMap self-guided walking tours, Mike navigates Paris with confidence and ease. He shares his experiences of exploring the vibrant Latin Quarter and the historic Marais, highlighting how self-guided tours can significantly enrich a solo traveler's experience by providing orientation and depth to the exploration of new cities. Mike's practical travel tips, including the benefits of the Museum Pass and strategic planning for visiting the Louvre, offer valuable insights for anyone planning a Parisian adventure. From the grandeur of the Arc de Triomphe to the diverse offerings of the Jardin des Plantes, this episode will inspire and guide listeners looking to embark on their own Parisian adventure. This episode is a treasure trove of tips, tales, and inspirations for solo travelers and Paris enthusiasts alike, packed with the best of what Paris has to offer, from its historic landmarks to its hidden gems. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your first solo trip, join us for a journey through Paris that you won't forget. #SoloTravel #ParisGuide #TravelPodcast #ParisianAdventure #CulturalExploration #HistoricLandmarks #SelfGuidedTours #TravelPlanning Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine segment Five Days in Paris, solo trip Preparing for the trip Annie’s Walking Tours Vedette du Pont Neuf Boat tour Arc de Triomphe Exceptions to the rule on roundabouts in Paris The Natural History Museum Eiffel Tower Louvre Bibliothèque Nationale de France by the Louvre The Orsay Museum The Orangerie Museum The Tuileries Gardenand Notre Dame Trip logistics Any surprises? Things not enjoyed? What is is like eating by yourself at a restaurant in Paris? How were the prices in Paris? Thank you, patrons! Review Île de la Cité Review Saint-Germain-des-Prés VoiceMap tour Review Latin Quarter VoiceMap tour Review Montmartre VoiceMap tour New VoiceMap tour coming soon Busy Day Update on the apartment renovation Next week on the podcast Copyright

In this episode, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin delve into the extraordinary life of Simone Veil, a monumental figure in French politics and a stalwart advocate for women's rights. From her harrowing experiences as a Holocaust survivor to her pivotal role in shaping modern French history and the European Union, Veil's story is one of indomitable spirit, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Explore how she navigated the aftermath of World War II, championed abortion rights, and contributed to European unity. Veil's legacy as a beacon of resilience and a visionary for peace and cooperation across borders is a testament to her profound impact on the 20th century. Join us to honor the life and achievements of Simone Veil, whose influence continues to inspire change and progress. Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast Podcast supporters The Magazine segment of the podcast: Giant Marionettes in France Annie and Elyse: How Simone Veil Changed France Early Life and Family Background Impact of World War II and the Holocaust on Simone Veil’s life Surviving Auschwitz and the Aftermath Post-War Life and Return to Normalcy The Unexpected Appointment as a Health Minister Reproductive Rights in France Passing the Abortion Law Simone Veil’s Influence on the European Parliament The Vauban Club The End of an Era: Simone Veil’s Later Life and Death Honoring Simone Veil: The Journey to the Panthéon Thank you Patrons New patrons The Giant Puppets Copyright More episodes about French history

Step into the captivating world of the Sentier Cathare with our latest podcast episode, where history's echoes meet the thrill of adventure. Join us as Annie Sargent journeys with Christian Chauret through the breathtaking landscapes of Southern France.  This episode is not just a travelogue; it's an invitation to explore the depths of human resilience and the beauty of seeking beyond the horizon. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or someone looking for inspiration for your next active vacation, there's something in this journey for you.  Learn from Christian's experience as he shares invaluable insights and tips for navigating this historic trail. With each step, unlock the mysteries of the past and find inspiration for your own adventures.  Don't just listen to history—experience it. Subscribe to our podcast, and let the Sentier Cathare inspire your next adventure. #SentierCathare #AdventureTravel #HistoryComesAlive Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Support the Podcast 2024 Bootcamp Registrations Closed Magazine: Ranking of Best Places to Live in France Introduction and Welcome to Christian Chauret Inspiration Behind the Hike on the Sentier Cathare aka the Cathar’s Way Comparing Hiking Experiences: Difficulty and Enjoyment Planning the Hike Starting the Journey Lodging Throughout the Hike Challenges and Surprises Day by Day Hiking Experience Types of Trails and Finding Them Weather and the Best Time of Year to Go Encounters on the Trail Château de Quéribus Practicalities of the Hike Reflections on the Hiking Experience How Much Weight Should You Carry? Gîtes Offer Basic Ameneties, B&Bs Are More Pluswho is this bor Finding Accommodations Along the Way Using Guidebooks and Websites for Planning Booking Accommodations in Advance Château de Peyrepertuse Gorges du Verdouble Camps-sur-l’Agly Caudiès-de-Fenouillèdes Puilaurens Running into Americans who were doing this trail on horseback The castle of Puilaurens Axat Preparing for the Physical Demands of Hiking Conclusion: La France Profonde Who Is the Sentier Cathare For? Thank you, patrons New patrons Favorite Cities in France for French People Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about active vacations in France

10 Years and 1000 Destinations marks a significant milestone for the Join Us in France podcast, celebrating a decade of adventures, stories, and explorations into the heart of French culture, history, and landscapes. In this anniversary episode, hosts Annie and Elyse reflect on their journey from their initial meeting to building a platform that shares the lesser-known wonders of France with a global audience. The episode delves into the origins of their collaboration, the challenges and triumphs of podcasting, and their favorite discoveries across France. Listeners are treated to behind-the-scenes insights into the podcast's creation, topic selection, and the meticulous research that goes into each episode. Personal anecdotes, including how the hosts met their husbands and their plans for the future, add a deeply personal touch to the discussion. The episode also addresses listener appreciation, especially during the lockdown, emphasizing the podcast's role in connecting and inspiring people during challenging times. "10 Years and 1000 Destinations" is not just a look back but also a forward gaze into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for the podcast. It's an invitation to explore, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of French life alongside Annie and Elyse. Table of Contents for this Episode Celebrating the Podcast’s 10th Anniversary Today on the podcast The Magazine Segment of the Podcast Thank You, Patrons! Next Week on the Podcast Annie and Elyse Reflecting on the Journey and Listener Engagement How Annie and Elyse Met Annie’s Experience Living in France Elyse’s Journey to France The Decision to Start a Podcast The Process of choosing Podcast Episodes How Long Does Research and Recording Take? Are there bloopers that get edited out? Favorite Places in France Do You Listen to Other Podcasts? Planning a Trip to France The Challenges of Starting a Podcast The Evolution of Podcast Recording The Process of Crafting a Podcast Script The Journey of Becoming a Historian How we met our Husbands The Future Plans for the Podcast What is your favorite episode of the podcast? Annie’s ability to switch between French and English Which cultures outside of French and American cultures captivate your imagination? Appreciation for the podcast during Lockdown No ads on the podcast The logistics Copyright Support the podcast: Take on a Day Trip with Annie

In the latest episode of our podcast, join Annie Sargent and photographer Gregg Rutter as they embark on a picturesque journey through Paris. Titled "Flâneur and Photographer," this episode delves into Gregg's experiences and discoveries in the city, offering a unique perspective on Parisian life and culture. Gregg's adventure starts at the Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Près, a hotel with an ideal location near Pont Neuf and Notre Dame. He also attends a Photography Workshop with Serge Ramelli, enhancing his photographic skills. The episode features visits to cultural landmarks like the Picasso Museum, Carnavalet Museum, Musée d'Orsay, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Rodin Museum, and Orangerie Museum. Additionally, Gregg shares insights into photographing around the Musée du Louvre, especially on Tuesdays when it's closed to the public. Listeners will also enjoy Gregg's culinary recommendations, from enjoying cream puffs at Odette to dining at various Parisian restaurants like Ostra Paris and Le Zimmer. For those seeking literary inspiration, Gregg suggests several book titles that offer deeper insights into Paris's historical and artistic landscape. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in photography, Parisian art, culture, and cuisine. Whether you're planning a trip to Paris or simply dreaming of the city, Gregg's experiences will surely inspire and inform. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Bootcamp 2024 The Magazine Segment: the First “Restaurant” in France Annie and Gregg Rutter Planning the Trip to France Photography Workshop in Paris Learning French and Preparing for the Trip Itinerary Planning and Exploring Paris with VoiceMap tours Photography Workshop Photography Equipment for the Trip Visiting Museums and Exploring Art Not the First Visit to Paris Favorite Museums Fondation Louis Vuitton Musée Rodin Self-guided Cheese Tour of Paris Photograhy at the Musée du Louvre Musée de l’Orangerie The Charm of Sidewalk Cafes The Joy of Spontaneous Dining in Paris Sharing Favorite Dining Spots Experiencing Local Creperies The Beauty of Parisian Architecture Le Consulat, in Montmartre. Le Mabillon, Boulevard Saint Germain Opinion on Paris Prices The Importance of Pre-Trip Research Paris: A Safe Place to Be–Be Prepared for Pickpockets However! The Pleasure of Early Morning Photography DSLR or Phone Photography? The Convenience of Digital Payments and Don’t Get Cash at the Airport! Greggg’s Book Recommendations The Value of Guided Tours, Annie’s Tours The Importance of Pre-Booking Museum Tickets The Joy of Exploring Parisian Landmarks Wrapping Up the Parisian Adventure Thank You Patrons French History Brief about Victor Noir Annie’s Tours and Services The First Restaurant in France Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about photography in Paris

In this episode of the podcast, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin delve into the heart of Provence as they share their personal favorite villages in the Lubéron. Having explored this enchanting region in 2022 and 2023, they bring a fresh and insightful perspective to some of Provence's most captivating destinations. Provence is overflowing with incredible places to visit, and the challenge often lies in choosing where to go. Annie and Elyse aim to simplify this decision by highlighting the 'must-see' villages amidst a long list of breathtaking spots in the Lubéron. An essential aspect of their discussion includes practical travel tips, such as the best days to visit popular locations to avoid the crowds and the necessity of a car for exploring the Lubéron. The episode features their top six villages, each selected for its unique charm and historical significance: Gordes: Known for its picturesque hilltop views and beautiful stone architecture. Les Bories: Famous for its ancient stone huts with a rich history. Roussillon: Remarkable for its vibrant ochre cliffs and earthy tones. Lacoste: Intriguing for its association with the Marquis de Sade and its captivating past. Oppède le Vieux: A medieval village with cobblestone alleys and a timeless atmosphere. Ménerbes: Celebrated for its quintessential Provençal lifestyle, artistic heritage, and vineyards. Click play to join Annie and Elyse on this delightful journey through the Lubéron's most enchanting villages! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Bootcamp May 2024 The Magazine Segment Annie and Elyse about the Luberon villages Luberon area You’ll need a car to visit the Lubéron Where do you stay that’s central when visitng the Lubéron? How far from the nearst boulangerie? Example: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue What time of year should you visit Lubéron? Lavender Fields: Not Like in the Pictures! Many beautiful orchards Markets in Gordes and area Apt has one of the biggest open-air markets in the area A bit of Lubéron history Lacoste: a village dedicated to Art, Design and Sculpture Gordes: picture-perfect Les Bories hamlet Gordes abd the French Resistance Roussillon: The city of color Oppède le Vieux, a village for artists. Menerbes of A Year in Provence fame Thank you Patrons Phone Country Codes Copyright More episodes about Provence

Discover the challenges and triumphs of eating vegan in Paris, including practical tips and recommendations for vegan-friendly restaurants. Explore the speaker's 8-day vegan journey, from dining experiences to visiting famous attractions like Giverny and the Dior Gallery. The podcast also delves into the thriving vegan food scene in Paris and the future of vegan cheese technology. Don't miss this comprehensive guide for vegans traveling to the culinary capital of the world!