Episodios

  • France's Most Stunning Destinations: What's Worth the Hype (and What Isn't)

    France's Most Stunning Destinations: What's Worth the Hype (and What Isn't)
    Apr 12 2026
    Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin are back, and this time they're settling the big question: which famous destinations in France actually deliver, and which ones need a reality check? Listen to this episode ad-free They cover prehistoric painted caves, perched medieval villages, Loire châteaux, mountain valleys, and coastal wonders. They also get honest about the places that disappoint — bad weather, bad timing, or just bad hype. No sugarcoating. No brochure language. Just two people who know France well, telling you what's worth your time. If you love France and want to travel smarter, this episode is for you. Subscribe to Join Us in France so you never miss an episode — a new one drops every Sunday. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: France's Most Stunning Destinations: What's Worth the Hype (and What Isn't)Magazine segmentWelcome to Wow FranceWhat Makes a Wow Ugly France Reality Check Managing Wow ExpectationsMona Lisa Hype TrapEiffel Tower Surprise Old Paris Street Magic Pech Merle Painted CaveBrittany Wild CoastLoire Chateaux Wow Perched Villages Provence Chartres Cathedral Blue Bayeux Tapestry Marvel Alps and Pyrenees PeaceDurance Valley Alps Mont Saint Michel Reality Versailles Visit Strategy Carcassonne and Memories Natural Wonders Roundup The Cliffs at  ÉtretatThe Dune du PilatLes Gorges du VerdonLe Cirque de GavernieRocamadour Villages And Modern IconsFood Wine And MarketsAlsace Wine Route Strasbourg, Annecy, Nice Tourist Traps WarningsMoulin RougeCamargueGorges du Tarn Les Calanques Between Marseille and CassisGordes in Provence Riquewihr in the Alsace Saint Paul de Vence in Provence Les Baux de Provence and Carrière de Lumière La Tour Montparnasse Gets Complained About a LOT Restaurants Near Any Major Landmark Are MehThe Champs Elysées Large Group Wine and Food Tours Mixed on Hop On Hop Off Buses Instagram Travel And WrapCopyright More episodes about French culture
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    1 h y 11 m
  • First Trip to France? Here's What You Really Need to Know from 50 Years of Visits

    First Trip to France? Here's What You Really Need to Know from 50 Years of Visits
    Apr 5 2026
    First Trip to France? Here's What You Really Need to Know from 50 Years of Visits. This is what Annie Sargent explores in this episode with Nancy and Michael Armstrong, and it's packed with the kind of advice you only get from people who have done this over and over again. Listen to this episode ad-free They talk about what has changed in France travel and what hasn't. They share how much easier things are now with apps, trains, and translation tools. But they also explain why the basics still matter. Say bonjour. Be polite. Slow down. Annie, Nancy, and Michael get into the real decisions travelers face. Should you take the train or rent a car? How much should you plan ahead? What should you pack? Their answer is simple. Pack light. Stay flexible. Don't try to do too much. They also share stories. The kind that stick with you. A peaceful cruise on the Canal du Midi. A magical hot air balloon ride. Unexpected moments that happen when you leave space in your itinerary. There's also practical advice. Travel insurance. Staying safe. Avoiding pickpockets. And how to handle the little things that can stress you out if you're not prepared. This is a warm, honest conversation about how to travel better, not just more. If you're planning your first trip to France, or your tenth, you'll come away with ideas you can use right away. Hit play and enjoy the conversation. And if you like it, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcastPodcast supportersMagazine segmentMeet the ArmstrongsFrench Friendliness Why Michael Speaks French Translation Apps and AI Trip Planning with AppsAging Travel Tips Travel Insurance Essentials   Travel Can Reveal Mobility Difficulties You Didn't Know You Had Pack Light and Do Laundry Train vs Car Day Trips Renting Cars in France Favorite Regions and Seasons Podcast Tips and Metro Updates Safety and Pickpocket Smarts VoiceMap Tours and HistoryFuture Voice MapsSarlat Food History First Trip France Tips Bonjour French MannersSlow Down Plan LessMuseum Timing TicketsAlbi Train Surprise Stay Flexible Try AnywayCanal du Midi Cruise Canal History And Locks Loire Balloon AdventureTraveling With Family Then Versus Now TravelKayaking Pont du GardOff Season Closures Why Toulouse Stands OutFarewell And Thanks Patreon Thanks and Perks VoiceMap Tours and Discounts Paris Region Tourism Trends Paris Elects New Mayor France Election Results Roundup Tour Montparnasse Closure Credits and Next Episode Next week on the podcastCopyright More episodes about visiting Paris for the first time
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    58 m
  • Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the South of France

    Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the South of France
    Mar 29 2026
    Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the South of France is the focus of this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast. Annie Sargent chats with Juliana Linssen and her husband Craig about their journey from California to Provence and what it's really like to search for a home in France. Listen to this episode ad-free They share what drew them to France in the first place. They talk about lifestyle, food, and the appeal of the South of France. They also explain how they narrowed their search to beautiful villages in the Var and the arrière-pays, in places like Seillans, Fayence, and Montauroux. Annie, Juliana, and Craig walk through the reality of house hunting. It's not always easy. Inventory can be limited. Listings can be confusing. And homes can be very different from what buyers expect. They also share a big moment. They had an accepted offer, then had to walk away after discovering structural issues. It's a tough lesson, but an important one. They also talk about financing, timelines, and the role of language. You don't need perfect French, but it helps. And patience is essential when buying property in France. This conversation is honest, practical, and full of insight. It's useful if you're dreaming about moving to France. It's also fun if you just love discovering beautiful places. If you're curious about what it really takes, press play and listen now. And if you enjoy the episode, be sure to subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode Episode Intro and Preview Today on the podcast: Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the VarPodcast supportersMagazine segment Meet Juliana and Craig Why France and the Var / Alpes-Maritimes Learning French and Work Plans Tech Ties and Visa Thoughts The House They Almost Bought Immediately Beware of Falling in Love with a House Var vs Luberon Search Expansion Working with French Realtors Inspections and Buying Advice The Buying Process Typically Takes 6 Months Var Highlights and Must SeesPerched Village CharmSkydiving and Gliders Accessibility in Hill Towns Meeting Neighbors FastPets and Moving Plans Work Transfers and Passports Patience and Due Diligence Financing with French Loans Verdon and Outdoor Life Thanks and Patron Support RER B Overhaul Updates Cathar Castles Revisited Layers of History and Farewell Next week on the podcastCopyright More episodes about moving to France
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    57 m
  • What People Get Wrong About French Food

    What People Get Wrong About French Food
    Mar 22 2026

    French food has an incredible reputation around the world. Many people imagine elegant pastries, complicated recipes, and chefs carefully assembling perfect plates in restaurant kitchens. But everyday food in France is often much simpler—and much more interesting.

    Listen to this episode ad-free

    In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, we explore some of the most common myths about French food and desserts. What do French people actually cook at home? Are fancy pastries really part of everyday life? And why are bakeries such an important part of daily life in France?

    The reality may surprise you.

    French home cooking is often simple, seasonal, and practical. Instead of elaborate dishes, many families enjoy straightforward meals made with fresh ingredients. Desserts are usually just as simple—fruit, yogurt, a piece of chocolate, or an easy homemade cake. The beautiful pastries you see in bakery windows are typically special treats prepared by highly trained pastry chefs.

    In this episode you'll learn:

    • What French people really eat at home
    • Why bakeries play such a central role in French food culture
    • How seasonal ingredients shape French desserts
    • Why many visitors misunderstand French cuisine

    If you love French food and want to understand the culture behind it, this episode is for you.
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    51 m
  • Moving to France: Realities, Challenges, and Rewards

    Moving to France: Realities, Challenges, and Rewards
    Mar 15 2026
    59 m
  • The Guédelon Project: A Modern Take on Medieval Construction

    The Guédelon Project: A Modern Take on Medieval Construction
    Mar 8 2026
    In the episode "The Guédelon Project: A Modern Take on Medieval Construction," Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin explore the fascinating world of the Guédelon Project. They discuss how a team of builders, artisans, and historians are constructing a real medieval castle using only 13th-century techniques and tools. Listen to this episode ad-free Annie and Elyse delve into the history of the Guédelon Project. They explain how it all started with a small team of enthusiasts led by Michel Guyot. The goal was to build a castle from scratch using only medieval methods. The site is located in the heart of France, near the city of Auxerre in Burgundy. The conversation covers the challenges faced by the team at Guédelon. They had to learn how to cut stone without modern tools. They also had to make their own iron from local resources. The project has faced numerous challenges, from finding the right materials to mastering ancient techniques. Annie and Elyse highlight the educational and touristic aspects of the Guédelon Project. Visitors can see firsthand how medieval castles were built. The site offers workshops and demonstrations that make history come alive. The episode provides a captivating look into the Guédelon Project. Annie and Elyse share insights and stories that bring the medieval era to life. They discuss the unique blend of archaeology, architecture, history, and tourism that makes this project so special. Listen to this episode to learn more about the Guédelon Project. Discover how a medieval castle is being built using traditional methods and materials. Subscribe to the podcast for more fascinating conversations about France, its history, and its culture. The Guédelon Project is a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval history and architecture. Don't miss this episode and subscribe to the podcast for more captivating conversations. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Magazine segment Next week on the podcast Guédelon with Elyse Why Build a Castle? Why build instead of renovate? Origins of the Project Finding the Forest Site Quarry Stone and Castle Scale Tools Forge and Water Crew Apprentices and Volunteers Safety and Problem Solving Visiting Tips and Workshops Food Gardens and Herbalist Medieval Herbal Medicine Watermill Flour Experiments Measuring by Twelve Masons Marks and Lifting Tech Trusses and Problem Solving Oeuvriers and Visitor Tips Guédelon Timeline and Crafts Modern Logistics and Lasting Builds Why You Should Visit Final Reflections and Goodbye Copyright More episodes about French history
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    57 m
  • Taste of Gascony: Life, Food, and Tours in France's Hidden Gers Region

    Taste of Gascony: Life, Food, and Tours in France's Hidden Gers Region
    Mar 1 2026
    In "Taste of Gascony: Life, Food, and Tours in France's Hidden Gers Region", Annie Sargent welcomes Jenine Lurie, a New Yorker who swapped city life for the rolling hills and medieval villages of the Gers. This episode dives into Jenine's journey—from volunteering on a pig farm 15 years ago to building a new life (and a tour business) in one of France's most authentic, off-the-beaten-path departments. If you've ever dreamed of escaping to rural France or crave travel stories packed with flavor, culture, and real-life adventure, this conversation delivers. Listen to this episode ad-free Annie and Jenine explore why the Gers feels like a well-kept secret. Here, tourists are rare, medieval bastide towns stand frozen in time, and the Pyrenees loom in the distance. Jenine shares how she fell for the region's slow pace, warm locals, and rich gastronomy—think Armagnac, floc, and duck confit—while navigating the challenges of buying a home, learning French, and launching Taste of Gascony, her immersive tour company. She takes visitors beyond the usual wine tastings, introducing them to artisan bakers, Armagnac distillers, and even jazz festivals in Marciac. Listen as she spills the details on her five-day tours, where guests roll up their sleeves to make baguettes, explore hidden art galleries, and dine with expats who've made the Gers their home. The episode also tackles the nitty-gritty of moving to France: visas, healthcare, and the infamous French bureaucracy. Jenine's honest advice? Follow the rules, embrace the process, and lean on your community. She reveals how she secured her titre de séjour, snagged a health card for just €23 at the dentist, and why buying her Bassoues cottage felt like the start of a new chapter—champagne included. Annie adds her own insights, comparing the Gers to busier French hotspots and explaining why this region rewards those who love history, tranquility, and a taste of la vie rurale. But it's not all countryside charm. Annie wraps up with a timely update on Paris's crackdown on illegal Airbnbs—including eye-popping fines for rule-breakers—and teases next week's episode on Guédelon, the medieval castle being built using only 13th-century tools. Perfect for francophiles, future expats, or anyone curious about France beyond Paris, this episode proves why the Gers deserves a spot on your travel list. Hit subscribe to Join Us in France for more hidden gems, practical tips, and stories that make you feel like you're exploring France with a friend. Whether you're planning a trip or just armchair traveling, Annie's conversational style and Jenine's infectious enthusiasm will leave you craving croissants, countryside drives, and maybe even a move to Gascony. Subscribe now and never miss an episode of the podcast that's like a postcard from France—delivered straight to your earbuds. Bon voyage! More episodes about the southwest of France Table of Contents for this Episode Welcome and Preview Today on the podcast: Taste of Gascony Podcast supporters Magazine segment Meet Jenine in Gers From Workaway to Gers Buying in Bassoues Why Gers Feels Special Language and Local Life Culture and Getting Around Weather in the Gers Bastide Town History Taste of Gascony Tours Finding Rentals by Network Visa and Health System Closing Day Emotions Notaire and Legal Basics Healthcare and French Values Building Taste of Gascony Politics and Perceptions Health Card and Visa Steps Expat vs Immigrant Mindset Bonjour and Local Etiquette Armagnac Floc and Aperitifs Patrons Tours and Reviews VoiceMap Tour Reviews Private day trips Paris Airbnb Crackdown Next week on the podcast Copyright
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    53 m
  • The Insider's Guide to Fractional Ownership in Paris: Is It Right for You?

    The Insider's Guide to Fractional Ownership in Paris: Is It Right for You?
    Feb 22 2026
    This episode dives deep into a dream many Francophiles share: owning a piece of Paris without the full-time commitment or price tag. In this episode, host Annie Sargent sits down with Marie Tartar, a fractional apartment owner in the Marais, to break down everything you need to know about this smart alternative to traditional real estate. If you've ever wondered how to enjoy Paris like a local—with your own keys, favorite café, and neighborhood routines—this conversation is packed with practical insights. Listen to this episode ad-free Marie shares her firsthand experience owning a share of a one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the Marais. She explains how fractional ownership works: instead of buying an entire property, you purchase a share with a small group of owners, typically 12 to 13 people. Each owner gets four weeks a year—two fixed and two floating—so you always know when your next Parisian getaway is on the calendar. Unlike timeshares, you're a deeded owner, which means you can sell your share, pass it on, or even trade weeks with other owners. Annie and Marie discuss the costs, which range from €100,000 to €800,000 depending on the size and location, plus annual dues that cover maintenance, housekeeping, and property management. For Marie, it's been a game-changer, offering the freedom of a second home without the hassle of upkeep or dealing with a French syndic. The conversation covers the perks of fractional ownership, like having a concierge on call for anything from a broken kettle to restaurant recommendations. Marie's apartment comes with a storage bin in the basement for personal items, and a WhatsApp group keeps owners connected for sharing tips on local exhibitions and hidden gems. Annie highlights the importance of choosing a well-managed property, where a strong developer handles conflicts and logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your stay. They also talk about the lifestyle—imagine spending your days exploring the Marais, visiting quirky museums like the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, and strolling to the Left Bank for movies and meals. If you love Paris but don't want the responsibility of full ownership, fractional apartments offer a flexible, lower-stress way to have a pied-à-terre in the city. Marie and Annie discuss the best neighborhoods for fractional ownership, how to find opportunities, and what to watch out for when reviewing contracts. Whether you're a frequent visitor or just dreaming of longer stays, this episode reveals how fractional ownership can make Paris feel like home. Ready to turn your Parisian dreams into reality? Hit subscribe to Join Us in France for more insider tips, hidden gems, and stories that bring France to life. Perfect for travelers, Francophiles, and anyone curious about owning a slice of Paris! Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: Fractional Ownership in Paris Thank you podcast supporters Magazine segment: OrlyBus is no more and the Eiffel Tower and women scientists Introduction to Fractional Ownership in Paris Understanding Fractional Ownership vs. Timeshares How Fractional Ownership Works Personal Experiences with Fractional Ownership Managing and Using Fractional Ownership Financial Aspects of Fractional Ownership Developer and Management Insights Practical Considerations and Tips Communication with fellow owners Exploring the Eiffel Tower Area Daily Life in Paris: Movies, Museums, and Meals Favorite things to do while in Paris Hidden Gems of the Marais Photography and Exhibits in Paris Dining and Cooking in Paris Travel Tips and Jet Lag Solutions Paris "Gotchas" The Benefits of Fractional Ownership Concluding Thoughts and Farewells Thank you, patrons Private Day Trips with Annie Charles de Gaulle AIrport Transfers RER B Safety Note Eiffel Tower Honors Women Scientists Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about Paris
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    1 h y 1 m