Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Have you ever dreamed of owning a home in France? In From Paris to Saumur: Real Estate Dreams and Travel Tips for France Lovers, host Annie Sargent sits down with guest David Palachek to talk about making that dream a reality—and all the adventures along the way.

David shares how he and his partner fell in love with Saumur, right in the heart of the Loire Valley. They bought a home in the center of town, surrounded by history, wine culture, and beautiful châteaux. Annie and David swap tips for exploring the region, including visits to Candes-Saint-Martin, Montsoreau, Fontevraud-l'Abbaye, the Château of Langeais, and the gardens of Villandry.

Before heading to Saumur, David spent time in Paris and stayed at the Off Paris Seine, a floating hotel he loved for its unique design and great location. They also talk about the Cadre Noir, France's prestigious equestrian school, and why it's a must-visit for horse lovers.

This episode blends personal stories, travel recommendations, and cultural insights for anyone dreaming about French life or planning a Loire Valley trip.

Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for weekly inspiration, practical tips, and authentic stories that will help you explore France like a local. Whether you're a traveler, a future expat, or just curious about French culture, this episode will make you want to pack your bags.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Welcome
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:54] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:25] Magazine segment
• [00:02:09] Welcome, David Palacheck
• [00:02:18] David's Previous Appearances
• [00:02:46] Business Trip to Paris
• [00:03:55] Exploring Real Estate in the Loire Valley
• [00:04:45] Traveling with Family
• [00:05:31] Frequent Visits to France and Making a Plan to Move to France
• [00:06:33] Dreaming of Moving to France
• [00:10:40] First Trip on the Metro and How to Get Around Using Trains in France
• [00:13:12] Why Saumur?
• [00:17:48] Showing Paris to a Newcomer
• [00:24:55] Ticket Troubles in Paris
• [00:28:41] Navigating the Paris Metro
• [00:31:48] Exploring Montparnasse and the Eiffel Tower
• [00:33:05] Art and Architecture in Paris
• [00:38:14] Things learned about France
• [00:39:37] Hotel on a barge
• [00:44:39] Exploring the Loire Valley
• [00:46:24] Final Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:46:49] Thank you Patrons
• [00:47:23] Video for Patrons
• [00:48:42] Personal Update: Listing my Spain Apartment on Home Exchange
• [00:50:08] Annie's Services
• [00:51:03] The Eiffel Tower's Secret Engine
• [00:53:39] The Statues of Notre Dame Return
• [00:56:25] Copyright

Ever wondered what it's like to explore the French countryside on horseback and by foot?

In From the French Countryside to Classical Concerts in Paris, host Annie Sargent chats with Casey and Molly, two sisters who share their recent adventures through rural France. This episode is packed with off-the-beaten-path ideas for travelers who love nature, history, and cultural surprises.

The sisters didn't just pass through France—they immersed themselves in it. They stayed at Mas de Peyrelongue, a welcoming equestrian farm where visitors can ride horses "à la carte" while practicing their French with the hosts. For hikers, they found a gem: the Abbey of Sainte-Eulalie Espagnac, a peaceful stop along a local trail where walkers can rest for the night. They also visited the Château d'Ygrande in the Auvergne, a gorgeous countryside retreat with an elegant restaurant—perfect for relaxing in a beautiful natural setting.

But their journey didn't stop there. After their rural adventures, they returned to Paris for a very different kind of experience: a classical concert at Sainte-Chapelle and a stroll through the Marais.

This episode is a great listen for travelers looking for slower, more personal ways to enjoy France. Whether you're planning your next trip or just dreaming of France, don't miss this story.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:58] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:26] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:00] Episode 557
• [00:03:17] Exploring Mas de Peyrelongue
• [00:06:02] Discovering Abbey Sainte-Eulalie d'Espignon
• [00:08:06] Visiting Rocamadour and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
• [00:13:23] Painted Cave of Pech-Merle
• [00:14:23] Toulouse and Elyse's Walking Tour
• [00:18:45] Market Day in Sarlat
• [00:21:32] Paris: The Pantheon Experience
• [00:24:00] Classical Music Concerts in Parisian Churches
• [00:26:05] Exploring Parisian Parks: Parc Monceau and Highline Park
• [00:28:50] A Culinary and Equestrian Adventure in Auvergne
• [00:30:39] Michelin Bib Restaurants
• [00:32:06] Discovering the Chateaus of Amboise
• [00:33:30] Trying Different White Wines Along the Way
• [00:36:27] Hiking and Scenic Routes in Auvergne
• [00:38:34] A Brief Stop in Cahors and the Camino de Santiago
• [00:41:24] Latin Dancing Along the Seine River
• [00:43:30] Travel Tips and Reflections
• [00:51:39] Thank you, Patrons
• [00:53:13] Montmartre – a local view
• [00:57:15] Annie's VoiceMap Tour of Montmartre
• [00:57:43] What's the Solution?
• [00:59:16] Copyright

Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast to hear new episodes every week.

Have you ever dreamed of exploring a fairy-tale town in the French Alps? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled "Discover Annecy: The Little Venice of the Alps," host Annie Sargent and her guest Elyse Rivin take you on a journey to one of the most picturesque places in France.

Annecy is famous for its turquoise lake, charming canals, and Alpine backdrop. But there's more to it than pretty views. Annie and Elyse dive into the town's rich history, its role in the Duchy of Savoy, and the impressive transformation of its old prison — the Palais de l'Isle — into a cultural landmark.

They also talk about the best things to do in Annecy: walk along the Thiou River, visit the Château d'Annecy, enjoy water sports on Lake Annecy, and ride or walk the bike path around the lake. This episode is packed with tips on Savoyard food specialties like tartiflette, raclette, and local cheeses.

Whether you're planning a trip or just curious about French destinations beyond Paris, this episode will help you discover Annecy like a local.

💬 Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app so you never miss an episode. If you enjoy in-depth travel conversations and off-the-beaten-path ideas, Join Us in France is your perfect companion.

🎧 Hit play and let's explore Annecy together!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:30] Today's Episode
• [00:00:58] Podcast Supporters
• [00:01:28] Magazine Segment
• [00:02:22] Annie and Elyse about Annecy
• [00:03:05] The Scenic Beauty of Annecy
• [00:04:43] Traveling to Annecy
• [00:06:09] Exploring Annecy's Old City
• [00:12:20] Activities Around Lake Annecy
• [00:13:22] Rent Your Bike in Advance
• [00:16:37] Historical Significance of Annecy
• [00:18:59] Annecy's Religious and Political History
• [00:24:57] Visiting Annecy's Landmarks
• [00:26:40] Le Jardin de l'Europe and Outdoor Activities
• [00:27:15] Paragliding and Water Sports
• [00:28:49] Michelin-Starred Restaurants and Local Cuisine
• [00:30:23] Cheese Delicacies: Fondue, Raclette, and Tartiflette
• [00:33:26] Traditional Alpine Foods and Drinks
• [00:39:40] Festivals and Celebrations in Annecy
• [00:40:34] Transhumance
• [00:42:12] Annecy International Animated Film Festival
• [00:43:27] Cassandre: A French Police Series
• [00:44:58] Final Thoughts on Visiting Annecy
• [00:45:19] Thank you Patrons
• [00:46:20] Zoom Meetings
• [00:46:42] Review of the Montmartre VoiceMap Tour
• [00:47:37] Discounts for Podcast Listeners
• [00:48:26] Differences between the US and France
• [00:49:06] No Giant Billboards on the Freeway
• [00:49:30] Consumerism is toned down
• [00:49:53] Work-Life Balance
• [00:50:18] No tipping Pressure
• [00:50:48] Shops and Restaurants
• [00:51:20] Credit
• [00:51:44] Holidays
• [00:52:24] Paris Baloon
• [00:55:30] Copyright

Thinking about taking a day trip from Paris? In Episode 555: Day Trip to Chartres from Paris with Patricia Perry, Jennifer Gruenke, and Annie Sargent explore how easy and rewarding it can be to spend a day in this charming French town just an hour from the capital.

Chartres is best known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stained glass windows and soaring architecture. But there's much more to enjoy! Annie, Patricia, and Jennifer share their firsthand experience exploring the cathedral, wandering the old town, and enjoying a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant right across from the cathedral.

They also talk about smaller gems like the Maison Picassiette and the Centre International du Vitrail, two stops worth making if you're interested in folk art or stained glass. The episode is full of practical tips: how to take the train from Gare Montparnasse, what to wear, and how to pace yourself if you're planning a relaxed day trip.

If you're planning on visiting Chartres from Paris or just want ideas for easy escapes beyond the capital, this episode is packed with insight. Whether it's your first time in France or your tenth, you'll pick up useful ideas and inspiration.

🎧 Subscribe to Join Us in France for weekly episodes on French destinations, culture, history, and travel tips. Annie Sargent brings you local insight, personal stories, and helpful advice to make your trip to France even better.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:16] Introduction and Welcome
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:54] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:24] Magazine segment
• [00:02:46] Planning a Day Trip to Chartres
• [00:03:25] Chartres en Lumières: The Light Show Experience
• [00:04:58] And Inexpensive Self-Guided Day Trip from Paris
• [00:06:40] Malcom Miller, expert on the Chartres Windows
• [00:07:02] Exploring Chartres: Key Attractions and Tips
• [00:11:12] Picassiet
• [00:12:47] Les Fresques de Belair
• [00:15:01] The Advantages of Taking an Audio Guide
• [00:17:28] The Chartres Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece
• [00:19:01] Bring Binoculars or Use Your Phone to Zoom In
• [00:21:03] The Santa Camisa of Mary Relic at Chartres Cathedral
• [00:22:04] Chartres Cathedral Is Undergoing Renovations
• [00:24:57] The Plaza
• [00:26:07] Street Mosaics
• [00:27:24] The Musée de Vitraux
• [00:33:00] Trains in France
• [00:36:14] Final Thoughts and Recommendations
• [00:36:39] Consider Staying Overnight in Chartres
• [00:38:13] Bonus Stop: Chateau de Madame de Maintenon
• [00:39:12] Conclusion and Future Plans
• [00:39:51] Thank You, Patrons
• [00:40:42] Review Ile de la Cite
• [00:41:24] Discount for Podcast Listeners
• [00:42:19] Paris Metro Tickets
• [00:44:36] Paris Honors Women in Science
• [00:46:45] Tips on Choosing Restaurants in France
• [00:53:50] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:54:16] Copyright

In Discovering the Southwest of France: Tips and Tales for Travelers, host Annie Sargent talks with Catherine McMillan about her recent road trip through some of the most beautiful and underrated parts of France.

Catherine traveled by car and took her time exploring the Southwest of France. She shares her experience driving from Bordeaux to Arcachon, Cap Ferret, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Espelette, Sare, Lacanau, and more. Her trip focused on slower travel, scenic drives, good food, and authentic experiences. Annie and Catherine talk about why the Southwest stands out from other parts of France. They share practical tips on navigating small towns, finding great local markets, and making the most of regional specialties.

If you're curious about the Basque Country, the Dordogne, or other places tourists sometimes miss, this episode is for you. They also talk about local museums, seasonal travel advice, and why renting a car can be the best way to explore rural France.

This episode is full of smart advice and personal stories to help you plan your own French road trip.

Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for weekly episodes about travel tips, cultural insights, and unforgettable destinations in France. Whether you're planning your first visit or your tenth, Annie helps you travel smarter and deeper in France.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:32] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:55] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:25] Magazine segment
• [00:02:21] Annie and Catherine
• [00:03:42] Planning the Trip: From Consultation to Gratitude
• [00:05:16] Trip Timeline and Destinations
• [00:05:58] Renting a Car
• [00:07:21] Exploring the Southwest of France
• [00:08:21] Walking Through History: Medieval Villages and Cathar Country
• [00:10:31] Discovering Plus Beaux Villages
• [00:17:10] Musée du Foie Gras
• [00:17:36] Unique Experiences: Craftsmen and Local Artisans
• [00:19:39] Gloves Making Experience
• [00:21:20] Weaving Basque Fabrics
• [00:23:31] Unusual and Lesser-Known Museums
• [00:23:49] Museum of the Oyster
• [00:24:30] Musee du Tabac
• [00:25:18] The Musee de la Mer in Sete
• [00:26:07] Vézuna Museum
• [00:27:04] La Maison Forte de Reignac: A Must-See Historical Site
• [00:28:43] Exploring a Historic Maison Forte
• [00:29:42] Discovering the Charm of Bayonne
• [00:30:43] The Vibrant Les Halles Markets
• [00:32:11] Adventures in the Basque Country
• [00:34:56] Aveyron
• [00:35:39] booking.com
• [00:37:03] Find Out Where You Can Park Before You Get There
• [00:38:16] Hiking in the Hautes-Pyrénées
• [00:40:25] A Visit to Notre-Dame
• [00:42:20] Reflections on Traveling in France
• [00:43:59] Mistakes to Avoid
• [00:45:05] Phone access
• [00:46:42] The trains in the area
• [00:50:41] Final Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:51:29] Thank you Patrons
• [00:52:36] VoiceMap Reviews
• [00:53:18] Podcast Listeners Discounts for VoiceMap Tours
• [00:54:21] Fireworks in Paris
• [00:54:59] The Bayeux Tapestry Going on Loan
• [00:55:41] Notre-Dame de Paris Is VERY Popular
• [00:58:22] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:58:41] Copyright

Have you ever dreamed of boating through the French countryside?

In "Exploring the Canal du Midi on a Rental Boat," host Annie Sargent talks with John and Sally Capets about their week-long adventure on this historic waterway. They rented a boat with friends and spent their days slowly drifting past vineyards, plane trees, and medieval villages in southern France.

They share what it's really like to rent a boat on the Canal du Midi, navigate the many locks, and live in close quarters while exploring the beauty of Occitanie. John and Sally talk about practical details like packing light, using bikes along the towpath, and finding places to eat along the canal. They also explain why traveling slowly by boat gives you a deeper connection to France and its people.

They share highlights like seeing La Cité de Carcassonne from the water, visiting the Malpas Tunnel, and dining canal-side in Colombiers. They offer helpful advice for those curious about a Canal du Midi boat rental, what it costs, and what to expect during a week on the water.

If you love slow travel, French culture, and practical travel tips, you will enjoy this episode. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for weekly episodes that bring you closer to France, whether you are planning your next trip or just dreaming about it. Listen now to discover how exploring the Canal du Midi by boat could be the relaxing adventure you didn't know you needed.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Intro
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:02] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:52] Magazine segment
• [00:02:09] John and Sally
• [00:04:07] Boat travel on Canal du Midi
• [00:05:28] Selecting the Boat
• [00:05:55] No experience needed and no license required
• [00:08:51] Kitchen on Board of the Boat
• [00:13:09] Riding the Bikes along the Canal du Midi
• [00:16:05] Boat Pickup and Drop Off: How Much Distance Is Too Much?
• [00:17:44] Going through the locks
• [00:18:22] Visiting La Cité de Carcassonne.
• [00:20:50] THe Fonseraneses Locks
• [00:24:58] Dining Canal side in Colombier.
• [00:25:38] Malpas Tunnel
• [00:28:51] Folk Art at the Ecluse de L'Aiguille?
• [00:30:46] Sleeping on a small boat
• [00:33:20] Travel Light!
• [00:35:08] Pont Canal sur l'Orb
• [00:36:00] Sightseeing in Toulouse
• [00:44:17] Late September Weather on the Canal du Midi
• [00:46:02] Who Is It For?
• [00:48:57] Thank You Patrons
• [00:49:47] Zoom meetings with Patrons
• [00:50:39] Tour Reviews
• [00:53:29] Podcast Listeners Discount Codes
• [00:54:23] The Tour de France 2025
• [00:56:21] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:56:49] Copyright

Have you ever wondered how France became the world's perfume capital?

In "The Story of Perfume: A Journey Through France's Luxurious Past," host Annie Sargent and guest Elyse Rivin from Toulouse Guided Walks take you on a fragrant journey through French history. They explore how perfume evolved from smoky rituals and religious ceremonies to the luxury bottles we see today. You will learn how Grasse became the heart of perfume making and why Chanel No. 5, Shalimar, and Poison became iconic scents tied to France.

Listen to the episode ad-free to travel back in time through the scents of France!

Annie and Elyse share stories about Catherine de' Medici bringing her personal perfumer to France, the smelly days at Versailles when perfume was used to cover the lack of bathing, and how Napoleon loved Eau de Cologne so much he used it daily. Discover how the French revolution impacted perfume makers, how the Guerlain family shaped perfume history, and how synthetic fragrances changed the industry.

If you are planning a trip to France, Annie and Elyse suggest several places you can visit to enjoy this history in real life.

This episode is perfect for travelers interested in French culture, perfume lovers, and anyone curious about the unique stories that shaped France. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast to get weekly episodes that bring France to life with history, culture, and practical travel tips for your next adventure.

Listen to this episode to add a touch of scent and story to your France travel plans and discover why perfume remains one of the country's most luxurious traditions.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Topic Overview
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:03] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:59] No Magazine segment
• [00:02:33] Annie and Elyse about the History of Perfume in France
• [00:03:01] Perfume as a French Identity
• [00:04:15] Understanding Different Types of Perfume
• [00:07:38] Historical Significance of Perfume
• [00:08:46] The Fragonard Perfume Store near the Opera House in Paris
• [00:09:30] Finding Your Perfume
• [00:13:27] The word Perfume
• [00:13:30] Origin of the word "perfume"
• [00:14:44] Perfume in Religious and Cultural Practices
• [00:16:27] Perfume in Ancient Civilizations
• [00:20:24] The Renaissance Influence on French Perfume
• [00:21:58] Catherine de' Medici and the Rise of French Perfume
• [00:25:59] Grasse: The Perfume Capital
• [00:29:19] Impact of the Plague on Hygiene and Perfume
• [00:31:16] The Unwashed Aristocracy
• [00:32:41] Perfume to Mask the Stench
• [00:34:52] The Spread of Perfume Culture
• [00:37:30] The Birth of Eau de Cologne
• [00:42:45] Perfume Revolution in the 1700s
• [00:44:33] Napoleon and the Return of Perfume
• [00:46:45] The Rise of Guerlain and Synthetic Perfumes
• [00:48:00] The Introduction of Synthetic Fragrances
• [00:50:24] Perfume in 20th Century
• [00:52:15] Coco Chanel and Chanel No5
• [00:53:34] Christian Dior and the Perfume for the "New Women"
• [00:54:18] The Golden Age of French Perfume
• [00:56:17] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Exploring Paris and Strasbourg: Notre-Dame Highlights and Winter Traditions — Have you ever wondered what it's like to visit France in the winter? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent chats with Kim Cox, a listener from Minnesota, about her December adventures in Paris and Strasbourg.

They talk about how to enjoy Paris museums like the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie when the weather is chilly and the days are short. Kim shares what you can currently see at Notre-Dame de Paris, including the ongoing restoration and the excellent archaeological crypt right in front of the cathedral.

Then it's on to Strasbourg, where Kim timed her visit perfectly to enjoy the Strasbourg Christmas markets, known as some of the best in Europe. She offers tips for navigating the festive crowds, finding the best vin chaud, and learning about Alsatian culture at the local museum.

If you're curious about winter travel in France, exploring Paris and Strasbourg in December might be just what you're looking for. It's a great time for museum visits, festive lights, and warm comfort food.

Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for weekly episodes about French destinations, history, culture, and practical travel tips.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:16] Introduction and Welcome
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:57] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:30] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:18] Notre Dame Museums and Winter Magic with Kim Cox
• [00:02:45] Notre Dame Reopening Experience
• [00:10:27] Exploring Strasbourg's Christmas Markets
• [00:14:46] Living Like a Local in Paris
• [00:16:33] Picard, Frozen Foods
• [00:20:35] Cafe Culture in Winter
• [00:22:25] Museums and Historical Insights
• [00:25:20] VoiceMap Guided Walk in Strasbourg
• [00:26:48] Visiting the Carnavalet Museum
• [00:29:10] Dining and Reservations in Paris
• [00:32:20] Experiencing the Pantheon
• [00:34:44] Christmas Festivities in Paris
• [00:35:48] Late Night at the Louvre
• [00:38:19] Winter Travel Tips for Paris
• [00:41:38] Final Thoughts and Future Plans
• [00:43:33] Thank you Patrons
• [00:44:42] VoiceMap Reviews
• [00:46:42] Solar Energy Project in Paris
• [00:48:33] 6 Weeks away from the desk
• [00:52:15] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:52:59] Copyright

What's it really like to walk a long-distance trail in rural France? In this episode of Join Us in France, titled Hiking Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley, host Annie Sargent talks with Rowena Sjovall, a solo traveler from the U.S. walking the GR65 and the scenic Célé Valley route.

Rowena shares her detailed experience hiking the Chemin du Puy, one of France's most popular pilgrimage trails. She talks about trail conditions, signage, and the variety of landscapes—rolling hills, deep river valleys, and charming medieval towns. If you've wondered about hiking from Le Puy-en-Velay toward Cahors or incorporating the lesser-known Célé Valley variant, Rowena offers honest insights.

The conversation covers practical tips too. What kind of gear should you bring? How easy is it to find food and lodging? What's the vibe among other hikers? Annie asks all the right questions to help listeners decide if this kind of trip is for them.

Whether you're planning a Camino in France or just curious about rural walking holidays, this episode delivers both inspiration and real-world advice. Don't forget to subscribe to Join Us in France for more episodes like this, where travel dreams and logistics meet. Perfect for slow travel lovers, Francophiles, and adventure-seekers!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Greetings
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:59] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:32] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:25] Annie and Rowena
• [00:03:11] The Crazy Adventure Begins
• [00:06:27] Planning the Journey
• [00:08:41] Navigating the Trail
• [00:12:45] Challenges and Perseverance
• [00:18:48] Starting point
• [00:27:14] Navigating Through Cornfields
• [00:27:51] Rainy Day Lunch and Milka Chocolate
• [00:28:44] Challenges of Finding Food and Shelter
• [00:29:43] Reaching the Hilltop and Meeting Fellow Travelers
• [00:32:48] Exploring Troglodyte Houses
• [00:34:07] Communal Dinners and Accommodations
• [00:34:51] Comfort Level at the Accommodations in the Célé Valley
• [00:41:14] Advice for Future Travelers
• [00:44:15] Planning the Next Journey
• [00:47:41] The hardest day
• [00:48:17] Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:48:45] Thank you Patrons
• [00:49:40] Tour Reviews
• [00:50:40] Discount for Podcast Listeners
• [00:51:54] Swimming in the Seine
• [00:56:21] Next week on the podcast
• [00:56:58] Copyright

How do you plan a smooth and memorable trip across France using trains, rental cars, and buses? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Navigating France by Train, Car, and Bus, host Annie Sargent chats with Stephen Nicholson about his 24-day journey through France. Stephen and his wife combined different types of transportation to explore big cities, small towns, and hidden gems—without joining a tour group.

They started in Paris and used the OuiGo high-speed train to reach Avignon, then added regional trains, rental cars, and local buses to visit places like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Carcassonne, Sarlat-la-Canéda, and Amboise. Stephen shares practical advice on booking train tickets, rebooking car rentals to save money, and using travel apps to avoid stress.

Annie and Stephen also talk about how to find the best parking in small villages, how to use luggage storage services, and why it's smart to plan around French public holidays. They touch on lesser-known challenges like fuel station card holds and using Wise debit cards in Europe.

Whether you're planning to travel light, visit Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, or simply get the most out of your trip without overpacking your schedule, this episode is full of useful, real-world tips.

Subscribe to Join Us in France for more smart travel advice, inspiring guest stories, and honest discussions about what it's really like to explore France at your own pace.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Trip Overview —
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast —
• [00:00:56] Podcast supporters —
• [00:02:06] The Magazine segment —
• [00:02:37] Steven and Annie about "Navigating France by Train, Car, and Bus" —
  • [00:04:01] First Impressions and Travel Logistics —
  • [00:08:07] Exploring Avignon and Surroundings —
  • [00:09:26] Navigating Car Rentals and Local Markets —
  • [00:11:53] Journey to Carcassonne and Toulouse —
  • [00:14:15] Favorite Things in the Luberon —
  • [00:18:54] Wise Card —
  • [00:21:29] Carcassonne —
  • [00:24:12] Toulouse:Take Elyse's VoiceMap tour! —
  • [00:24:38] Encountering a French Labor Day Parade —
  • [00:25:22] Labor Day in France vs US —
  • [00:26:46] Exploring Toulouse and Surrounding Areas —
  • [00:27:45] Journey to Cahors and Car Rentals in France —
  • [00:30:02] France for Non-Foodies —
  • [00:31:00] Renting a Car in Brive-la-Gaillarde —
  • [00:33:54] Adventures in the Dordogne —
  • [00:38:42] Navigating the Loire Valley —
  • [00:40:53] Should You Worry About French People Not Liking Americans? —
• [00:43:21] Thank you Patrons —
  • [00:44:36] Discounts for Podcast Listeners —
• [00:45:57] Car-Free Paris? —
  • [00:49:00] Next week on the podcast —
  • [00:49:40] Copyright —