Episodes

  • Exploring the Canal du Midi on a Rental Boat

    Exploring the Canal du Midi on a Rental Boat
    Jul 6 2025
    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. Listen to this episode ad-free 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 More episodes about the Occitanie region of France
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    59 mins
  • The Story of Perfume: A Journey Through France's Luxurious Past

    The Story of Perfume: A Journey Through France's Luxurious Past
    Jun 29 2025
    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 More episodes about French culture
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    59 mins
  • 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