Episodes

  • Exploring Paris and Strasbourg: Notre-Dame Highlights and Winter Traditions

    Exploring Paris and Strasbourg: Notre-Dame Highlights and Winter Traditions
    Jun 22 2025
    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. Get the podcast ad-free 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 More Episodes About Paris and Strasbourg
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    55 mins
  • Hiking Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley, Episode 550

    Hiking Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley, Episode 550
    Jun 15 2025
    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. Get the podcast ad-free 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 More episodes about active vacations in France
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    59 mins
  • Navigating France by Train, Car, and Bus

    Navigating France by Train, Car, and Bus
    Jun 8 2025
    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 — More episodes about how to get around in France
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    52 mins
  • Marquis de Lafayette: Life and Historical Impact

    Marquis de Lafayette: Life and Historical Impact
    Jun 1 2025
    Exploring the Life and Historical Impact of the Marquis de Lafayette Who was the Marquis de Lafayette, and why does he matter so much in both France and the United States? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with Elyse Rivin about the life, legacy, and travels of this iconic figure. Lafayette was more than just a name in a history book—he was a young French noble who risked everything to support the American Revolution and later tried to bring those same ideals back to France during the French Revolution. Get the podcast ad-free Annie and Elyse dive into his fascinating biography, from his childhood in Auvergne to his close relationship with George Washington. They discuss Lafayette’s political struggles in France, his imprisonment, and his lasting influence on both sides of the Atlantic. The episode explores why Lafayette is considered a hero in two countries and how you can visit places in France connected to his life. If you're planning a trip to France and love history, this episode offers great travel tips too. You'll hear about the Château de Chavaniac-Lafayette, Picpus Cemetery in Paris, and the replica of the Hermione, the ship that carried him to America. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. Whether you're into French history, Revolutionary War connections, or looking for meaningful places to visit in France, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Setting the Stage — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:00:56] Podcast supporters — [00:02:16] Annie and Elyse about Marquis de Lafayette — [00:05:17] Lafayette’s Early Life and Background — [00:07:33] Lafayette’s Birth — [00:10:07] Lafayette’s Marriage — [00:12:03] Joining the Army — [00:13:14] Lafayette’s Role in the American Revolution — [00:19:22] First trip to the New World — [00:23:05] The Monetary Contribution of Lafayette and France to the American Revolution — [00:25:47] Back to France — [00:27:39] The Hermione — [00:29:14] Lafayette’s Return to France and Revolutionary Ideas — [00:31:38] Lafayette’s Continued Influence and Legacy — [00:32:20] Lafayette’s Political Awakening — [00:33:10] Pre-Revolutionary Activities — [00:34:34] Advocating for Equality and Abolition — [00:36:06] Lafayette’s role in the French Revolution — [00:37:54] Conflict with the Jacobins — [00:41:47] Exile and Imprisonment — [00:45:23] Return to France and Napoleon’s Distrust — [00:48:03] Lafayette’s Later Political Life — [00:53:29] Final Years and Legacy — [00:57:39] Lafayette’s Death — [01:00:39] Copyright — More episodes about French history
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Memorable France - Exploring Historic and Scenic Locations

    Memorable France - Exploring Historic and Scenic Locations
    May 25 2025
    What makes a trip through France truly unforgettable? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Memorable France - Exploring Historic and Scenic Locations, host Annie Sargent chats with Ken Ives about his 25-day journey through some of the country’s most meaningful places. Ken is a thoughtful traveler from California who planned a route filled with both beauty and history. He shares what it was like to stand in the silence of Oradour-sur-Glane, see 29,000-year-old cave art in Pech Merle, and take in sweeping views of the Lot Valley. Along the way, he visited Poitiers, Sancerre, Rocamadour, the Camargue, and more. They talk about how to mix slow travel with big moments. Ken gives practical tips on hotels, restaurants, driving in rural France, and managing travel with limited mobility. He also shares some memorable meals, like gardiane de taureau in the Camargue and Crottin de Chavignol pasta in Sancerre. If you’re searching for a deep, rewarding France itinerary with local flavor and historic depth, this episode is packed with ideas. It's perfect for listeners who want to go beyond the usual tourist circuit. Subscribe to Join Us in France on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app to discover new places, hear real stories, and plan smarter trips. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:00:50] Podcast supporters — [00:01:20] The Magazine segment — [00:01:49] Welcome, Ken Ives — [00:02:37] Exploring Fontainebleau and Sancerre — [00:03:30] Journey through Poitiers and Oradour-sur-Glane — [00:05:17] Southern France Adventures — [00:06:23] Discovering Poitiers Battlefield — [00:09:10]  Nouaillé-Maupertuis town and abbey — [00:10:20] Dining Experiences in Poitiers — [00:16:08] Visiting Pech Merle Cave — [00:23:26] Exploring the Pech Merle Museum — [00:24:25] Touring the Pech Merle Cave — [00:26:14] Dating the Ancient Cave Paintings — [00:29:11] Accessibility and Ease of Visiting Pech Merle — [00:32:23] Discovering the Lot Valley and Surroundings — [00:36:41] Visiting the Camargue and Bird Sanctuary — [00:45:42] Culinary Delights of the Camargue — [00:48:31] Conclusion and Future Adventures — [00:49:39] Thank you Patrons — [00:51:00] Discount for podcast listeners — [00:52:18] Changes to French Toll Roads — [00:54:38] Next week on the podcast — [00:54:57] Copyright — More Episodes about Going Off the Beaten Track in France
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    57 mins
  • Traveling Through France: Must-See Destinations from Paris to Annecy

    Traveling Through France: Must-See Destinations from Paris to Annecy
    May 18 2025
    Thinking about exploring France beyond the usual tourist spots? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, Traveling Through France: Must-See Destinations from Paris to Annecy, host Annie Sargent talks with Linda and Scott Rogers about their recent trip across some of France’s most beautiful regions. Get the podcast ad-free They share their experience visiting Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, and Lyon. Each stop brought something special—like biking through Burgundy vineyards, relaxing by Lake Annecy, and sampling the rich flavors of Lyon’s culinary scene. Annie, Linda, and Scott dive into the logistics too. They discuss train travel, how to manage your time wisely, and what it’s like to explore smaller cities at a relaxed pace. From favorite walks in Paris to peaceful corners in Burgundy, this episode is full of ideas for curious travelers. Want to know how to avoid crowds in Paris? Or how to plan a scenic biking day in Annecy? Looking for tips on enjoying French food without always eating in fancy restaurants? They cover it all. This episode is for anyone planning a multi-city trip in France, or simply dreaming about it. You’ll get practical advice, insider tips, and inspiration to slow down and enjoy each region’s unique charm. Join Us in France is the podcast for people who love France and want to explore it in depth. Hosted by Annie Sargent, it features real travelers, real stories, and lots of helpful travel insight. Like what you hear? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. New episodes drop weekly. Come for the tips—stay for the stories. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:32] Today on the podcast — [00:00:55] Podcast supporters — [00:01:25] The Magazine segment — [00:01:53] Welcome to France: Linda and Scott’s Journey Begins — [00:04:25] Linda’s Dream Trip Across France — [00:06:03] Over-planning vs an Adventure — [00:07:28] Exploring Dijon: Wine Tours and Olympic Thrills — [00:11:24] Olympic Basketball — [00:15:40] Annecy Adventures: Biking, Lakes, and Local Charm — [00:19:51] Biking Around the Annecy Lake — [00:22:17] Is Everything Closed in August in France? — [00:24:58] Exploring Annecy: Scenic Spots and Family Activities — [00:25:50] Travel Tips: How Long to Stay in Annecy and Dijon — [00:27:28] Discovering Lyon: A Stunning Walking City — [00:29:37] Dining in Lyon: Michelin Recommendations and Hidden Gems — [00:33:44] Paris Adventures: Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Treasures — [00:35:57] Top activities in Paris — [00:37:40] Luxembourg Gardens — [00:40:11] Enjoying Annie’s VoiceMap Tour of Le Marais — [00:41:04] Cultural Insights: Embracing the French Way of Life — [00:42:35] Book Your Accommodations First — [00:45:41] Final Thoughts and Farewell — [00:46:32] Thank You Patrons — [00:47:49] Discount for Podcast Listeners — [00:48:52] Planning a trip to France? — [00:49:10] Movie Locations in Paris — [00:53:55] Next Week on the Podcast — [00:54:28] Copyright — More Episodes About the French Alps and Lyon
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    57 mins
  • A Solo Traveler's Experience in Southwest France

    A Solo Traveler's Experience in Southwest France
    May 11 2025
    What’s it like to explore France on your own? In A Solo Traveler’s Experience in Southwest France, host Annie Sargent chats with Dawn Fairchild, a seasoned traveler from Los Angeles who set out on a two-week solo adventure through the stunning regions of the Lot, Dordogne, and Toulouse. Get the podcast ad-free Dawn shares her honest impressions, travel tips, and favorite moments—from learning French in a relaxed immersion program near Cahors to wandering the medieval streets of Sarlat. She talks about her visit to the painted cave at Pech Merle, wine tasting in Cahors, the markets of Toulouse, and unexpected joys like stumbling into a vide-grenier in Montignac. Annie and Dawn discuss beautiful châteaux like Beynac and Milandes, Josephine Baker’s legacy, and how Southwest France is a treasure trove of history, food, and natural beauty. Whether you're dreaming about Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, want to explore Toulouse’s vibrant markets, or plan to visit the Cité du Vin in Bordeaux, this episode is packed with useful details and inspiration. Annie and Dawn also reflect on the joys and challenges of solo travel, including navigating language and culture with confidence. Subscribe to Join Us in France for more conversations like this—real stories from travelers who dive deep into French life, culture, and history. New episodes drop every week. Let’s look around France together! Table of Contents for this Episode Introduction and Trip Overview Today on the podcast — Podcast supporters — The Magazine segment — Annie and Dawn Fairchild about the Southwest — When did this trip take place? First Impressions of Southwest France — Immersion Program Experience — Exploring the Lot Department and Painted Caves — Wine tasting in Cahors — Discovering Sarlat and Surroundings — Losse Chateau and Garden — Montignac — Highlights of the Dordogne — Chateau des Milandes and Josephine Baker’s Legacy — Chateau de Beynac — Boat and Hot Air Ballon Tours in Beygnac — Exploring the Dordogne: Chateaus, Rivers, and Prehistoric Caves — Falling in Love with Toulouse: A City of Charm and Joy — The Allure of the Toulouse Accent and Local Life — A Delightful Stay in Les Carmes: Le Clos des Salins — Toulouse Markets and Culinary Adventures: Take Elyse’s VoiceMap tour of Toulouse! — Museums and Historical Sites in Toulouse — Bordeaux: Historic Center and Cité du Vin Museum — Political Conversations and Market Experiences — New Things Learned in the Trip — Travel Challenges and Personal Growth — Reflections on the Trip and Future Plans — Thank you Patrons! — Podcast Listeners Discount — Itinerary Consultations with Annie — Hidden messages in the obelisk at Place de la Concorde. — Next week on the podcast — Copyright — More episodes about the southwest of France
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    55 mins
  • Best of the Savoie Department: Courchevel, Chambéry, Alberville, etc.

    Best of the Savoie Department: Courchevel, Chambéry, Alberville, etc.
    May 4 2025
    What makes the Savoie department in France so special? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Best of the Savoie Department: Courchevel, Chambéry, Albertville, etc., host Annie Sargent and co-host Elyse Rivin dive deep into the highlights of this beloved Alpine region. Get the podcast ad-free Savoie is famous for its majestic mountain views, ski resorts, and rich regional culture. Annie and Elyse talk about iconic destinations like Courchevel, a world-class ski resort that draws visitors from around the globe, and Chambéry, the historic capital of Savoie known for its charming old town and Italian-influenced architecture. They also cover Albertville, host of the 1992 Winter Olympics, and nearby attractions that are worth a visit even if you're not into winter sports. Beyond the ski slopes, the episode explores the region’s food culture—think tartiflette, fondue, raclette, and delicious local wines. They talk about summer activities too: hiking, mountain biking, lake swimming, and exploring picturesque villages. Whether you’re planning a ski trip, a summer vacation in the Alps, or just curious about French mountain culture, this episode gives you all the inspiration and practical tips you need. Annie and Elyse share personal stories, travel advice, and a genuine love for the region. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast and never miss an episode full of French travel tips, cultural insight, and destination inspiration. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Greetings — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:01:07] Podcast supporters — [00:01:40] The Magazine segment — [00:02:07] Annie and Elyse about History of Savoie and Haute-Savoie — [00:03:00] Geography and Key Locations — [00:04:42] Skiing in Savoie: Resorts and Activities — [00:06:11] Recent Events and News — [00:07:58] Upcoming 2030 Winter Olympics — [00:10:45] Travel Tips and Transportation — [00:11:49] Winter Tires for the car in the mountain area in winter months — [00:14:16] Local Culture and Traditions — [00:15:13] French Tradition of Social Security Health Care — [00:17:41] Distances from the Savoie Department to Various Locations in France — [00:20:21] National Parks and Summertime Activities — [00:22:53] Find Experiences in the Area on Komoot — [00:26:14] Charming Villages and Scenic Beauty — [00:28:05] The Tradition of the Transhumance — [00:29:14] Culinary Delights: Cheeses and More — [00:36:50] Conclusion and Recommendations — [00:37:41] Thank you, Patrons — [00:38:25] Tours Reviews — [00:38:40] Discount for Podcast Listeners — [00:40:54] Train and Road Work During Summer — [00:44:13] SNCF strikes — [00:45:16]  Place de la République — [00:48:44] Next week on the podcast — [00:49:15] Copyright — More episodes about the French Alps
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    51 mins