French connections

From hanging Christmas trees from the ceiling to the "Père Fouettard", we take a look at some of France's end-of-year traditions. We also discuss debates over tipping at New Year, nativity scenes in public places and whether presents should be opened on December 24 or 25.

This week on French Connections we take a look at the complex web of "autoroutes", or highways, in France. Over 70 percent of French people stayed in France for their vacations in 2023, and that means most of them hit the road. From its inception in 1927 to controversial toll increases to bumper-to-bumper traffic, we tell you how these highways illustrate so much about French society. 

Food insecurity in France is growing. Over the past decade, the number of people asking for help has tripled. On French Connections, we dive into the world of food banks and how these charities are struggling to provide for France's neediest. We look at why critics say the system needs to change. Finally, we end on a positive note, discussing a highly praised French food distribution system: military rations.

France’s passion for ‘occasion,’ or ‘used’ items, is not new, but it is growing by 15 to 20 percent every year. In this week's edition of French Connections, we take a look at how, with inflation and a growing environmental consciousness, French people are increasingly avid buyers of second-hand things.

To add a little sweetness to our week, on French Connections we're exploring how French pastry is evolving. From a female French baker being named the best pastry chef in the world to the origins of the "haute patisserie" trend, to how "pâte à choux" (choux pastry) got its name, we dive into this emblem of French culture. We also take a look at its not-so-sweet side: how many pastries are thought to be home-made but are not.