By Annie Sargent
4.8
989989 ratings
The podcast currently has 529 episodes available.
Moving to France: Tips for Navigating French Bureaucracy with Allison Lounes
Are you dreaming of a life in France but unsure where to start? In this episode of Join Us in France, Annie Sargent welcomes Allison Lounes, an expert in helping people navigate the complexities of moving to France. Together, they dive into the nitty-gritty details of visas, healthcare, banking, and the essential steps for a smooth transition to French life.
Get the podcast ad-freeAllison, the founder of France Formation and author of Foolproof French Visas, shares her personal journey of moving to France and her expertise in assisting others to do the same. She explains the importance of selecting the right visa based on your plans, whether you're retiring, working, or starting a business in France. From understanding the "rule of butts" for tax residency to why you need to establish a solid paper trail for every administrative process, Allison's insights are invaluable.
The conversation also covers healthcare enrollment, driver's license exchanges, and the nuances of French banking. Allison reveals common mistakes people make when settling in and provides tips on how to avoid unnecessary stress. Annie and Allison also discuss the joys of embracing French culture and why preparation is key to a successful move.
If you've ever dreamed of living in France, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-life stories to guide you. Listen in for expert tips and actionable steps to make your French dream a reality.
More episodes about moving to France Ready to get started? Sign-up for a free Q&A with France FormationHave you ever wondered about the stories that linger on historic battlefields? In this episode of Join Us in France, Exploring Vimy Ridge: WWI Remembrance in France, Annie Sargent chats with Felix Wang, a guide at the Canadian National Vimy Ridge Memorial, to dive into the legacy of Vimy Ridge and its lasting significance for Canadians and visitors alike.
Get the podcast ad-freeFelix, originally from Toronto, shares his journey as a guide, explaining why Vimy Ridge holds a special place in Canadian history. The Battle of Vimy Ridge, fought in April 1917, marked a defining moment in WWI for Canadian forces. Felix describes how this high ground, captured from German forces at a great cost, is now a symbol of Canadian courage and sacrifice.
Together, Annie and Felix explore the meaning behind the impressive limestone memorial, with its two towering pillars symbolizing Canada and France. They discuss the preserved trenches and tunnels, the visitor center, and nearby sites, including the Notre Dame de Lorette and Wellington Quarry in Arras. Felix offers tips on making the most of a visit to this solemn place, sharing insights into the Canadian experience on this battlefield.
This episode brings history to life and highlights the deep connections between Canada and France. Tune in to Exploring Vimy Ridge: WWI Remembrance in France to hear the moving stories that keep the memory of Vimy Ridge alive. Whether you're a history buff, planning a trip to France, or simply curious about WWI, this episode will give you a powerful look at one of France’s most meaningful war memorials.
Have you ever heard of the Auvergne region in France? In Uncovering Auvergne: Top Places to Visit and Local Legends, host Annie Sargent speaks with tour guide Andrew Manns to explore the hidden wonders of this lesser-known region. Auvergne is filled with fascinating landscapes, charming medieval villages, and captivating folklore.
Get the podcast ad-freeAndrew shares his passion for places like Puy de Dôme, a dormant volcano, and the picturesque village of Montpeyroux, often compared to Tuscany. They also dive into the mysterious side of Auvergne, from haunted lakes to stories of werewolves and witches, offering a unique perspective on the region’s rich history and traditions.
If you’re interested in off-the-beaten-path destinations, nature hikes, or learning more about local French culture, this episode is for you. Whether you're planning your next trip or just love discovering new places through storytelling, Andrew’s insights will inspire you to explore Auvergne’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Listen to this episode and uncover why Auvergne is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered!
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Have you ever considered visiting Bourges? In this episode of Join Us in France, titled "Exploring Bourges: A Hidden French Gem," Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin take you on a deep dive into this lesser-known but fascinating town in central France. They discuss Bourges' rich medieval history, including its role during the Hundred Years' War, and explore two of its most iconic landmarks—the stunning Bourges Cathedral and the Palais Jacques Coeur.
Get the podcast ad-freeAnnie shares her impressions from her recent trip, describing the town’s charm and historical significance. Elyse adds rich context about Jean, Duke of Berry, who played a key role in Bourges' development during the Middle Ages. Together, they paint a vivid picture of the city’s golden era and discuss why this off-the-beaten-path destination should be on your radar.
Whether you’re interested in French history, architecture, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this episode has something for everyone. Join Annie and Elyse as they uncover the hidden gems of Bourges, from its cultural landmarks to its culinary specialties like pâté berrichon and Sancerre wine.
Don't miss out—listen now to discover why Bourges is worth a visit!
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Are you curious about discovering hidden treasures in France? In this episode of Join Us in France, titled Hidden Gems of the Loire Valley, host Annie Sargent chats with guest Paul Gulesserian to explore some of the lesser-known châteaux and picturesque villages in this beautiful region.
Get the podcast ad-freePaul, a proud Francophile and recent French citizen, shares his adventures as he and his husband Florian venture through the Loire Valley. Rather than focusing on the well-known châteaux, like Chambord and Chenonceau, they explore lesser-known gems such as the Château de Brézé, Château de Montreuil-Bellay, and Château de Brissac. Each one offers something unique, whether it's underground tunnels at Brézé or breathtaking views at Montreuil-Bellay.
Paul's enthusiasm for exploring the charm and history of these often-overlooked sites brings the Loire Valley to life in a fresh and inspiring way. From their cozy stay at Domaine de Mestré to their adventures biking through troglodyte villages and sipping local wines, this episode is filled with travel tips and personal insights into life in France.
Join Annie and Paul as they delve into the magic of these hidden gems. Don’t miss out on this fun and informative episode—tune in now!
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The French Explorer Who Founded Detroit: Lamothe Cadillac
Did you know the founder of Detroit came from a small village in southwest France? In this episode, host Annie Sargent and guest Kim Loftus dive into the life of Antoine Laumet, better known as Lamothe Cadillac. He’s the man who established Detroit and left a lasting mark on both French and American history.
Get the podcast ad-freeBorn near Toulouse in the village of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave, Cadillac reinvented himself when he set off for the New World. Along the way, he adopted a new name, a new identity, and used his charm and ambition to rise in the ranks of New France. He became a key figure, founding Fort Pontchartrain (which would later become Detroit) and serving as Governor of Louisiana.
Annie and Kim also share their visit to Cadillac’s birthplace, where they explored the local museum and uncovered more about his legacy. They talk about the small towns of southwest France, like Castelsarrasin and Moissac, and their connections to this intriguing historical figure.
Cadillac was an ambitious and controversial man who shaped early French-American history. Whether you’re a history buff, a Francophile, or just curious about the real story behind the name "Cadillac," this episode is full of fascinating insights.
Listen now to discover more about this bold explorer and his incredible journey from rural France to the founding of Detroit!
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Ever wondered what it’s like to live in a small French village? In this episode, host Annie Sargent chats with Steve Hoffman, author of A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France. Steve shares the story of how his American family moved to a tiny winemaking village in the Languedoc region, north of Béziers.
Get the podcast ad-freeThis wasn’t your typical expat adventure. Steve and his family wanted to experience France like locals, sending their children to French schools and embracing rural village life. The adjustment wasn’t easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. Steve talks about the challenges of integrating into a close-knit community and the joys of slow travel.
The episode dives into what it means to truly immerse yourself in French culture. Steve shares how working in the local vineyards during the grape harvest (vendange) connected him with the land and the people. His experiences with French food and wine opened up a new appreciation for the Mediterranean lifestyle and cuisine.
Whether you’re dreaming of moving to France or just curious about life outside the usual tourist destinations, this episode offers a fresh perspective on living in France. You’ll learn about the importance of local connections, the French education system, and how staying in one place can reveal the beauty of deep travel.
Tune in to hear Steve’s personal stories, insights, and tips on experiencing France like a true local. Listen now and share this episode with other Francophiles!
More episodes about moving to FranceHave you ever heard of a postman who built his own palace? In this episode, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin dive into the incredible story of Ferdinand Cheval, a humble rural postman from France who dedicated 33 years of his life to constructing the extraordinary Palais Idéal. Located in the village of Hauterives in the Drôme, this unique structure was entirely made from stones Cheval collected on his daily postal routes.
Get the podcast ad-freeAnnie and Elyse explore what drove Cheval to pursue this ambitious and unusual project. They discuss his inspiration, the challenges he faced, and the artistic vision that turned his dream into a reality. This quirky and little-known monument is now a historical landmark and draws visitors from around the world.
If you love discovering hidden gems or learning about unusual places to visit in France, this episode is perfect for you. Annie and Elyse also share tips on how to plan a visit to the Palais Idéal and highlight other interesting sites in the area, such as Château de Tournon and the Grotte de Choranche.
Listen to the full episode to hear the amazing story of Ferdinand Cheval and learn why this whimsical palace has captured the hearts of so many visitors. It's a must-listen for travelers who seek out the quirky, unusual, and downright inspirational!
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Planning a mother-daughter trip? Join host Annie Sargent as she chats with Sandy and Melissa Fabry about their unforgettable journey through Lyon and Provence. In this episode, Sandy and Melissa share their experience of traveling together, highlighting the joys and surprises of exploring new destinations as a family.
Get the podcast ad-freeFrom the bustling food markets of Lyon to the serene beauty of Provence, this episode covers it all. The Fabrys talk about their favorite moments, including a memorable Michelin-starred meal at Les Terrasses and a fun street food and street art tour in Lyon. They also describe their adventure renting an electric car and driving through the charming villages of Provence, making stops in places like Uzès, the Pont du Gard, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.
Whether you're planning your next family getaway or just love hearing about travel in France, this episode offers plenty of inspiration. Sandy and Melissa's relaxed approach to travel, combined with their love for French food, art, and culture, makes this a fun and informative listen.
Tune in for great tips on what to see, where to eat, and how to make the most of a mother-daughter trip to France!
More episodes about family travel in France
Discovering Angers
Have you ever wondered what makes Angers such a great day trip from Paris? In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent is joined by Patricia Perry and Jennifer Gruenke to share their experiences exploring the charming city of Angers.
Get the podcast ad-freePatricia planned the trip, and together, the trio discovered why Angers is worth a visit. They dive into the highlights of their day, including the magnificent Château d'Angers and the stunning Tapestry of the Apocalypse—one of the largest and oldest surviving medieval tapestries in the world. Jennifer brings her unique perspective as an artist, offering insights into the historical and artistic significance of the tapestries.
But Angers is more than just its famous château. Patricia also planned a wine-tasting experience and a visit to modern tapestries at the Saint John Hospital. They discuss their favorite parts of the day, including the city's architecture, gardens, and cozy atmosphere.
Whether you're planning a day trip from Paris or simply looking for inspiration for your next visit to France, this episode is packed with travel tips and cultural insights. Tune in to Discovering Angers to learn why this often-overlooked city deserves a spot on your itinerary!
Table of Contents for this Episode
#AngersFrance, #DayTripFromParis, #ChâteauDAngers, #TapestriesOfTheApocalypse, #FrenchHistory, #FrenchWineTasting, #MedievalArt, #LoireValley, #AngersTapestries, #ExploreFrance, #FrenchCastles, #TravelInFrance, #AngersCathedral, #ParisDayTrips, #VisitAngers, #HistoricFrance, #FrenchCulture, #TGVTrain, #DiscoverFrance, #FranceTravel
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