Episodios

  • Living the Dream: Moving from Australia to Paris, Burgundy, and Provence

    Living the Dream: Moving from Australia to Paris, Burgundy, and Provence
    Apr 27 2025
    Have you ever dreamed of leaving it all behind and Living the Dream in France? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Living the Dream: Moving from Australia to Paris, Burgundy, and Provence, Annie Sargent talks with Alexandra Lalak, an Australian travel and food writer who made the big move to France. Get the podcast ad-free Alexandra first landed in Paris, thinking she’d stay for just two years. But she fell in love with French life—and a Frenchman—and never left. She later moved to Burgundy, where she discovered the beauty of wine country and the joys of a slower, more rural lifestyle. Now, she’s living in Provence, enjoying sunshine, local markets, and everything the Mediterranean lifestyle has to offer. In this relaxed, friendly chat, Annie and Alexandra dive into what it’s really like to live in France. They talk about everyday life in French villages, exploring Provence, shopping at local markets, and discovering French wine from small producers. Alexandra also shares practical advice for those considering a move to France or planning a visit to places like Avignon, Luberon, and Nuits-Saint-Georges. Thinking about Living the Dream in France? This episode is packed with insights and tips about traveling, moving, and truly enjoying the best of French life. Don’t forget to subscribe to Join Us in France for more real stories and expert advice about traveling in and living in France. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Guest Welcome — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:01:11] Podcast supporters — [00:02:02] The Magazine segment — [00:02:23] Annie and Alexandra — [00:03:01] Alex’s Journey to France — [00:04:03] It’s about the French way of life — [00:05:34] Life in Burgundy — [00:07:37] Exploring Burgundy’s Wine and Cuisine — [00:10:59] Ways to Sell Wine in France — [00:12:15] Wine distribution in France — [00:15:29] Travel Writing Career — [00:17:12] Living in Provence — [00:19:30] Tips for Visiting Provence — [00:20:26] The 3 parts of Provence — [00:22:08]  Le Saint-Hubert Hotel and Restaurant — [00:23:58] Luxurious Experiences in Gordes — [00:25:13]  Le Mas des Infermières à Oppede — [00:28:31] Navigating Provence: It’s Almost Impossible Without a Car or a Guide — [00:31:16] The Joys of a Relaxed Lifestyle — [00:33:10] Moving to France: Insights and Tips — [00:42:03] Embracing the Mediterranean Lifestyle — [00:43:04] Thank you Patrons — [00:44:20] Tour Reviews — [00:46:39] Tourist Rentals in France — [00:50:59] Consider Home Exchange Options As Well — [00:52:17] Next week on the podcast — More episodes about moving to France
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    55 m
  • A Road Trip in Southwest France: Top Tips and Destinations, Episode 542

    A Road Trip in Southwest France: Top Tips and Destinations, Episode 542
    Apr 20 2025
    Planning a road trip in southwest France and wondering where to start? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled "A Road Trip in Southwest France: Top Tips and Destinations," host Annie Sargent chats with guest Craig Anderson about a two-week itinerary through Occitanie, from Montpellier to Toulouse. Get the podcast ad-free Craig, a seasoned traveler from the U.S., shares how he and his wife Pamela explored the region by rental car, with stops in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Sète, Béziers, Carcassonne, Albi, Rabastens, and Toulouse. They dive into local experiences—like a wine tour with lunch at a winemaker's family farm, visiting Cathar castle ruins at Lastours, and eating oysters by the lagoon in Sète. You’ll hear why Montpellier's university-town vibe is so lively, how Béziers surprised them with its charm and renovation, and why staying inside the medieval walls of Carcassonne makes for a magical evening. In Toulouse, they booked both a guided history tour and food tours to connect deeper with the city. This episode is packed with practical travel tips, great food and wine stops, and ideas for travelers who want to experience more than just the highlights. Subscribe to Join Us in France to hear more trip reports, cultural insights, and itinerary ideas all around France. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Francophile, Annie’s conversations will help you plan smarter and travel better. Table of Contents for this Episode Introduction and WelcomeToday on the podcastPodcast supportersThe Magazine segment Craig and Pamela Anderson Interview Trip Overview and Past TravelsExploring Montpellier Wine Tours and Local ExperiencesVisiting SèteDiscovering Béziers Journey to Carcassonne and Cathar Castles Exploring a Quaint Village and Its Restaurant Visiting Carcassonne: Tips and ExperiencesAlbi Arriving in Toulouse and Exploring Capitol Square Food Tour and Private Tour with Elyse in Toulouse Toulouse Tour with Elyse  Toulouse Gourmet Tours Future Travel Plans and Reflections on FranceThank you Patrons!Tour Reviews  The François Mitterrand site of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France – BNF Buy your Metro Tickets on your Smartphone New Prices as of January 2025Navigo Easy CardCopyright More episodes about the Occitanie region
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    1 h y 6 m
  • Corsica Revealed: Rich Culture, Cuisine, and Stunning Landscapes

    Corsica Revealed: Rich Culture, Cuisine, and Stunning Landscapes
    Apr 13 2025
    Thinking of exploring a French island that's wild, beautiful, and full of surprises? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Corsica Revealed: Rich Culture, Cuisine, and Stunning Landscapes, host Annie Sargent chats with tour guide Jean-François Sénéchal about his favorite island—Corsica. Jean-François lives in Tourrettes-sur-Loup, near Nice, but he has deep Corsican roots. His mother was born on the island, and his grandmother ran a hotel in Calvi. Today, he takes visitors on immersive, small-group tours around Corsica. In this episode, he shares what makes Corsica so unique, from its wild coastline and pristine beaches to its hilltop villages and proud local culture. Want to know the best time to visit Corsica? What to eat and drink? Where to go for the most scenic drives, wine tastings, or quiet moments? This conversation has you covered. Annie and Jean-François discuss Corsican history, Corsican independence, why the locals are famously prickly, and why you absolutely need a car to enjoy the island. They talk about stops like Calvi, Corte, Ajaccio, Bonifacio, and the Cap Corse. You'll also hear about local specialties like brocciu cheese, figatellu sausage, and cédrat liqueur. If you're dreaming of a trip to Corsica, or just want to hear about one of France's most fascinating regions, this episode is for you. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. Whether you're planning your first trip to France or your tenth, Join Us in France brings you expert advice, local insights, and engaging stories every week. Table of Contents for this Episode Welcome Back to Join Us in FranceToday on the podcastPodcast supportersThe Magazine segment  Jean-François and Annie about Corsica Introducing Corsica: A Tour Guide’s Perspective Corsica’s Rich History and Cultural Pride A Unique Corsican Culture Exploring Corsica: Must-Visit Places Corte and a Little History LessonAjaccio and NapoleonUnique Bonifacio Corsica as a Self-Guided Tour High Season in Corsica Corsican Cuisine and Local Specialties Exploring Corsican Cuisine Tour Packages and Itineraries Cost of Living in Corsica Traveling Around Corsica: Must Have a Wheels! Wine Tasting and Wineries Challenges in Agriculture Due to Climate ChangeIndustries in Corsica Corsican History and CultureCorsican Songs Conclusion and FarewellThank you PatronsTour ReviewsI need YOU! Using my VoiceMap Codes Is Easy!  Foire du Trône May Holidays in FranceLabor Day, May 1st Victory in Europe Day, May 8th Ascension Day, May 29th Pentecost Monday, June 9thCopyright More episodes about Corsica
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    1 h
  • Celebrating Cézanne in 2025: A Journey Through His Art and Legacy, Episode 540

    Celebrating Cézanne in 2025: A Journey Through His Art and Legacy, Episode 540
    Apr 6 2025

    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.

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    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
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    52 m
  • Mother-Daughter Celebrating a 75th Birthday in France, Episode 539

    Mother-Daughter Celebrating a 75th Birthday in France, Episode 539
    Mar 30 2025
    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
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    1 h y 1 m
  • How to Plan for a Leisurely Trip to France

    How to Plan for a Leisurely Trip to France
    Mar 23 2025
    Ever wondered how to plan a leisurely trip to France? In "How to Plan a Leisurely Trip to France with Carol Handel," host Annie Sargent explores the art of slow travel with guest Carol Handel from Sydney, Australia. Together, they dive into the joys of taking your time to explore France's charming destinations. Get the podcast ad-free Carol shares her journey from meticulous trip planning to creating her blog, French Views. She offers insights into selecting the perfect locations for a week-long stay, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture. Discover tips for cycling through picturesque landscapes like Provence and the Pyrenees, and learn how to bring your own bike for a familiar, reliable ride. Annie and Carol discuss the thrill of experiencing the Tour de France in person. Carol provides practical advice on finding the best viewing spots and enjoying local festivities. They also delve into the logistics of traveling with bikes, including renting a van and finding accommodations with essential amenities. For those who love Paris, Carol reveals her favorite arrondissements and hidden gems. Her blog features detailed guides, offering a unique perspective on the city's allure. Throughout the episode, Annie and Carol emphasize the importance of slow travel, encouraging listeners to savor each experience and connect with France's culture and people. Join Annie and Carol as they explore the hidden gems of France and the art of slow travel. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Subscribe to Join Us in France for more immersive travel experiences and tips on making the most of your French adventure. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Magazine segment Introduction and Greetings Starting a Blog About France Planning Long Trips to France Cycling Adventures in France Challenges and Logistics of Traveling with Bikes Introducing the Blog ‘French Views’ Planning the trips Deciding How Long to Stay in Each Place Rental agencies Favorite Places for Leisurely Cycling Exploring Paris: Tips and Experiences Summer Travels and the Tour de France Planning Your Tour de France Experience French Travel Tips and Cultural Insights Getting Along in French Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations Thank you, patrons! One weekend with my sister-in-law in Paris Walking the Streets of Paris Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about going off the beaten track in France
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    49 m
  • MasterChef’s Andrew Prior: From Australia to France

    MasterChef’s Andrew Prior: From Australia to France
    Mar 16 2025
    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
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    57 m
  • Béziers Travel Guide: Top Attractions and Local Tips, Episode 536

    Béziers Travel Guide: Top Attractions and Local Tips, Episode 536
    Mar 9 2025
    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
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    1 h y 2 m
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