Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Annie Sargent
  • 4.8 (91)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Planning a trip to France? Join Us in France is the podcast for you! On this podcast we have conversations about our trips to France, chat with tour guides, share tips on French culture, the basics of French history, explain how to be savvy traveler in France and share our love of French food, wine and destinations in France. You won't want to miss out on all these great conversations about one of the most beautiful countries on earth! Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. And if you're planning your own trip soon - start listening now so you're ready to connect to France on a deeper level. Bon voyage!

  1. Road Tripping in Northern France: From Flander's Fields to Agincourt

    1 DAY AGO

    Road Tripping in Northern France: From Flander's Fields to Agincourt

    Craig Anderson road-tripped northern France after a week in Belgium. He loved it, and you will too. Annie and Craig talk Dunkirk, Calais, Boulogne-sur-Mer, the Battle of Agincourt, and a spontaneous day trip to Amiens Cathedral. Craig breaks down why you need a car, where to base yourself, and how affordable this overlooked region really is. Listen to this episode ad-free Annie also covers the Paris vacant apartment crisis and what a new 2027 tax means for property owners. This episode will make you want to book a flight. Hit subscribe so you never miss Annie's weekly conversations about traveling France the right way. New episode every Sunday. Table of Contents for this Episode Intro Today on the podcast: Road Tripping in Northern France Podcast supporters Magazine segment Welcome Craig Anderson Why Belgium and north France Getting there and around First impressions and vibe Dunkirk and Calais Base in Boulogne Cliffs food and history When to visit and locals Costs and budgeting Top highlights and connections Amiens cathedral day trip Shorter itinerary options Summer return and outdoors Wrap up and next trip Thank you, patrons! Travel Itinerary Services Paris Vacant Homes New Vacancy Tax Plan Owners Push Back Airbnb Enforcement Second Homes Warning Host Personal Example Newsletter and Credits Next Week on the Podcast Copyright More episodes about French history

    52 min

  2. 1 DAY AGO ·  BONUS

    You Might Also Like: No Magic Pill with Blake Mycoskie

    Introducing Matthew McConaughey’s Guide to Life from No Magic Pill with Blake Mycoskie. Follow the show: No Magic Pill with Blake Mycoskie After losing his father and a dark year in Australia, actor Matthew McConaughey walked into the wilderness of his own mind to figure out how to be a man. He did so by writing long letters to himself, taking solo “walkabouts,” and purging the shame, guilt, and embarrassment of his younger years. He tells Blake about his methods (including what worked and what didn't work) and how they brought him both professional and personal success. In this conversation you’ll learn: – How to take a solo trip that will provide life-changing clarity – Why using too many adjectives and adverbs when journaling means you’re lost – Why service and religion is selfish, and why that’s okay – How to teach your kids the great lesson of being bored – Why emotional maturity and critical thinking are crucial in the age of AI – Matthew’s final note to self Enough Foundation's mission is to spread reminders in every form — bracelets, messages, actions, community — until feeling ENOUGH becomes the cultural default. To learn more, visit weareenough.co. Produced, Directed, and Cinematography by Wubetu Shimelash / IG: Wubetu Shimelash Disclaimer: No purchase necessary. While supplies last. Visit http://www.weareenough.co/rules for full terms. More information on Blake’s other projects here:  Morning Water  Morning Water is a daily hydration formula that restores energy, balance, and performance with essential electrolytes, minerals, and nutrients in one simple routine.  To learn more, visit morningwater.co and use code NOMAGICPILL for 25% off your first order. SONIA  Sonia is a conversational AI companion designed for emotional support. Through voice and text, it offers guided wellbeing sessions, including meditations, journaling, personalized recommendations, and practical exercises. To learn more, visit www.soniahealth.com and download it on the App Store. MOOVLAB At MOOVLAB, we bring health and wellness to your workday.  MOOVLAB - the answer to sitting is moving.  To learn more, visit www.moovlab.com Follow Blake on Instagram and stay up to date with Lemonada on Facebook and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at lemonadapremium.com. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical questions or concerns you may have. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Blake's Story 1:50 ENOUGH Bracelet 2:18 Matthew's Approach to Identity 3:09 Coins of Prayers & the Icarus in Reverse Poem 05:51 Living with Purpose 06:07 Facing Your Demons Alone 07:56 The Day 12 Breakthrough 09:09 Practical Tips for Solitude & Survival Mode 09:55 Chop Wood, Carry Water 10:57 "I Am Enough" Mantra 12:23 "Just Because You Can Doesn't Mean You Should" 16:09 Simplifying Life 19:27 Morning Water 23:42 Rolling in High School, Then Losing It All in Australia 26:58 Finding Identity Through Disciplines in the Dark 27:29 Does Drama Find Us, or Do We Find It? 28:48 Is "This Too Shall Pass" a Privilege? 32:11 Service, Suffering & Obsessive Self-Centric Thinking 34:40 Is Serving Others Actually Selfish? 38:23 Tom's Shoes & the Identity Crisis Behind It 40:04 Sonia AI 41:32 Moovlab Chair 42:34 Teaching Kids Solitude & Knowing Yourself 44:52 Boredom as a Gift 49:04 AI, Multitasking & What Skills Actually Matter 52:35 The "Enough" Bracelet & Closing Poem 55:45 Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. Viollet-le-Duc: The Self-Taught Architect Who Shaped France's Medieval Landmarks

    3 MAY

    Viollet-le-Duc: The Self-Taught Architect Who Shaped France's Medieval Landmarks

    div]:bg-bg-000/50 [&_pre>div]:border-0.5 [&_pre>div]:border-border-400 [&_.ignore-pre-bg>div]:bg-transparent [&_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [&_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8 [&_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [&_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8"> _*]:min-w-0 gap-3 standard-markdown"> Annie Sargent sits down with licensed tour guide Elyse Rivin to talk about Eugène Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc — the self-taught architect who left his mark on Notre-Dame, Carcassonne, and Saint-Sernin in Toulouse, among many others. Listen to this episode ad-free They dig into how he taught himself everything, refused the Beaux-Arts at 18, and still ended up reshaping France's most iconic medieval landmarks. They talk about what he invented, what got torn down, and what his real legacy turned out to be. Annie also covers the newly renovated Paris Catacombs in the magazine segment. This is a fun one. Hit play — you'll never look at a French cathedral the same way again. Subscribe so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Magazine segment Meet Viollet-le-Duc Fame and Big Restorations What Restoration Means Palace Childhood and Talent Rejecting Beaux-Arts Rebel Spirit and Revolution France Sketching Tour Gothic Theory and Nature Mérimée Patron and Teaching Early Travels and Appointments First Major Restorations Restoration as Reinvention Reinventing Restoration Gothic Forms New Materials Notre Dame Afterlife Invented Icons Explained Chimera And Critiques Saint Sernin Controversy Carcassonne Mega Project Commune Exile Switzerland Legacy Quote and Influence Final Thoughts Farewell Thank you Patrons Travel Help And Tours Catacombs Reopen And Renovation New Features And Visiting Tips Nearby Sights In Montparnasse Seizing The Day In Spain Upcoming Trips Newsletter Credits Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about French history

    1hr 3min
  4. 23 Nights in Southern France Without a Car

    26 APR

    23 Nights in Southern France Without a Car

    Annie Sargent talks with Sally Schokman, an Australian solo traveler who spent 23 nights in southern France without a car. Sally took the train everywhere — Bordeaux, Toulouse, Albi, Avignon, Nice, Lyon, and Paris. She shares what surprised her, what she'd do differently, and which museums blew her away. They also dig into real logistics: booking trains during school holidays, Ouigo versus InOui TGV, solo dining, and handling rainy days like a pro. Annie also covers a recent change in French security rules at train stations and metro stops. Nothing alarming — just good to know before you go. This is exactly the kind of honest, practical conversation that makes trip planning easier. Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode 23 Nights in Southern France Without a Car Today on the podcast: 23 Nights in Southern France Without a Car Podcast supporters Magazine segment Meet Annie and Sally Trip Timing and Length Train Travel Adventures Solo Travel and Safety Getting to Bordeaux Ouigo Versus TGV Tips Bordeaux Stay and Hotels Booking Hotels and Scams Rainy Day Bordeaux Highlights Weather Changes and Toulouse Rain Gear and Museum Plans Toulouse Museums and Walks Albi Day Trip Essentials Market Lunch and Oysters Market Lunch Solo French Meal Times Breakfast Hotel Tips Avignon Autumn Magic Nice Museums Markets Day Trips Monaco Lyon Food And Art Paris Museum Day Marmottan Train Travel Wrap Up Thank you, Patrons! France Trip Services New Transit Security Powers What It Means for Visitors My Cold and Seeing a Doctor How French Appointments Work Next week on the podcast Newsletter and Farewell Copyright More episodes about using the trains in France

    57 min
  5. Home Exchange Experience: The Good, the Bad, and the Moldy

    19 APR

    Home Exchange Experience: The Good, the Bad, and the Moldy

    Melanie Dixon loves France and has done home exchange multiple times, both as a guest and as a host. She joins Annie Sargent to talk about what can go wrong — and it turns out, quite a bit can. Moldy bathrooms. Grimy sinks. A washer you're not allowed to use. An angry WhatsApp from a host who didn't like your honest review. Annie has her own war stories too. They also cover the red flags to watch before you book, and why a five-minute video call can save you a week of misery. Still worth it? Both say yes — but go in with your eyes open. Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: A Bad Home Exchange Experience Podcast supporters Magazine segment Home Exchange Reality Check Annie's Paris Stays When a Place Feels Off Why Booking Is So Hard Rejections and Newbie Profiles Video Calls and Photo Red Flags Dirty Homes and Missing Amenities Refunds and Reviewing Honestly When Hosts React Badly Spotting Review Red Flags Points Pricing Doesn't Flex Earning Points and Cancellations Support and Cancellations Points Pitfalls and Pausing Best Length of Stay Cleaning Fees Reality Host Gifts and Local Feel Hosting Prep and Amenities Screening and Red Flags Home Exchange vs Airbnb Transparency and Pet Care Staying Safe and Selective Where It Works Best Lavender and Steel Service Wrap Up and Goodbye Thank you Patrons Updates and Tour Reviews Why France Goes Electric Nuclear Power Context Inside a Nuclear Plant France Electrification Plan Heating Shift to Heat Pumps EV Push and Truck Electrification Renault EVs Worth Wanting Electrify Work and Home Closing Thanks and Next Episode Copyright

    59 min
  6. France's Most Stunning Destinations: What's Worth the Hype (and What Isn't)

    12 APR

    France's Most Stunning Destinations: What's Worth the Hype (and What Isn't)

    Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin are back, and this time they're settling the big question: which famous destinations in France actually deliver, and which ones need a reality check? Listen to this episode ad-free They cover prehistoric painted caves, perched medieval villages, Loire châteaux, mountain valleys, and coastal wonders. They also get honest about the places that disappoint — bad weather, bad timing, or just bad hype. No sugarcoating. No brochure language. Just two people who know France well, telling you what's worth your time. If you love France and want to travel smarter, this episode is for you. Subscribe to Join Us in France so you never miss an episode — a new one drops every Sunday. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast: France's Most Stunning Destinations: What's Worth the Hype (and What Isn't) Magazine segment Welcome to Wow France What Makes a Wow Ugly France Reality Check Managing Wow Expectations Mona Lisa Hype Trap Eiffel Tower Surprise Old Paris Street Magic Pech Merle Painted Cave Brittany Wild Coast Loire Chateaux Wow Perched Villages Provence Chartres Cathedral Blue Bayeux Tapestry Marvel Alps and Pyrenees Peace Durance Valley Alps Mont Saint Michel Reality Versailles Visit Strategy Carcassonne and Memories Natural Wonders Roundup The Cliffs at  Étretat The Dune du Pilat Les Gorges du Verdon Le Cirque de Gavernie Rocamadour Villages And Modern Icons Food Wine And Markets Alsace Wine Route Strasbourg, Annecy, Nice Tourist Traps Warnings Moulin Rouge Camargue Gorges du Tarn Les Calanques Between Marseille and Cassis Gordes in Provence Riquewihr in the Alsace Saint Paul de Vence in Provence Les Baux de Provence and Carrière de Lumière La Tour Montparnasse Gets Complained About a LOT Restaurants Near Any Major Landmark Are Meh The Champs Elysées Large Group Wine and Food Tours Mixed on Hop On Hop Off Buses Instagram Travel And Wrap Copyright More episodes about French culture

    1hr 11min
  7. First Trip to France? Here's What You Really Need to Know from 50 Years of Visits

    5 APR

    First Trip to France? Here's What You Really Need to Know from 50 Years of Visits

    First Trip to France? Here's What You Really Need to Know from 50 Years of Visits. This is what Annie Sargent explores in this episode with Nancy and Michael Armstrong, and it's packed with the kind of advice you only get from people who have done this over and over again. Listen to this episode ad-free They talk about what has changed in France travel and what hasn't. They share how much easier things are now with apps, trains, and translation tools. But they also explain why the basics still matter. Say bonjour. Be polite. Slow down. Annie, Nancy, and Michael get into the real decisions travelers face. Should you take the train or rent a car? How much should you plan ahead? What should you pack? Their answer is simple. Pack light. Stay flexible. Don't try to do too much. They also share stories. The kind that stick with you. A peaceful cruise on the Canal du Midi. A magical hot air balloon ride. Unexpected moments that happen when you leave space in your itinerary. There's also practical advice. Travel insurance. Staying safe. Avoiding pickpockets. And how to handle the little things that can stress you out if you're not prepared. This is a warm, honest conversation about how to travel better, not just more. If you're planning your first trip to France, or your tenth, you'll come away with ideas you can use right away. Hit play and enjoy the conversation. And if you like it, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode Today on the podcast Podcast supporters Magazine segment Meet the Armstrongs French Friendliness Why Michael Speaks French Translation Apps and AI Trip Planning with Apps Aging Travel Tips Travel Insurance Essentials   Travel Can Reveal Mobility Difficulties You Didn't Know You Had Pack Light and Do Laundry Train vs Car Day Trips Renting Cars in France Favorite Regions and Seasons Podcast Tips and Metro Updates Safety and Pickpocket Smarts VoiceMap Tours and History Future Voice Maps Sarlat Food History First Trip France Tips Bonjour French Manners Slow Down Plan Less Museum Timing Tickets Albi Train Surprise Stay Flexible Try Anyway Canal du Midi Cruise Canal History And Locks Loire Balloon Adventure Traveling With Family Then Versus Now Travel Kayaking Pont du Gard Off Season Closures Why Toulouse Stands Out Farewell And Thanks Patreon Thanks and Perks VoiceMap Tours and Discounts Paris Region Tourism Trends Paris Elects New Mayor France Election Results Roundup Tour Montparnasse Closure Credits and Next Episode Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about visiting Paris for the first time

    58 min
  8. Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the South of France

    29 MAR

    Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the South of France

    Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the South of France is the focus of this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast. Annie Sargent chats with Juliana Linssen and her husband Craig about their journey from California to Provence and what it's really like to search for a home in France. Listen to this episode ad-free They share what drew them to France in the first place. They talk about lifestyle, food, and the appeal of the South of France. They also explain how they narrowed their search to beautiful villages in the Var and the arrière-pays, in places like Seillans, Fayence, and Montauroux. Annie, Juliana, and Craig walk through the reality of house hunting. It's not always easy. Inventory can be limited. Listings can be confusing. And homes can be very different from what buyers expect. They also share a big moment. They had an accepted offer, then had to walk away after discovering structural issues. It's a tough lesson, but an important one. They also talk about financing, timelines, and the role of language. You don't need perfect French, but it helps. And patience is essential when buying property in France. This conversation is honest, practical, and full of insight. It's useful if you're dreaming about moving to France. It's also fun if you just love discovering beautiful places. If you're curious about what it really takes, press play and listen now. And if you enjoy the episode, be sure to subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast so you never miss an episode. Table of Contents for this Episode Episode Intro and Preview Today on the podcast: Buying a Home in France: Lessons from a Real-Life House Hunt in the Var Podcast supporters Magazine segment Meet Juliana and Craig Why France and the Var / Alpes-Maritimes Learning French and Work Plans Tech Ties and Visa Thoughts The House They Almost Bought Immediately Beware of Falling in Love with a House Var vs Luberon Search Expansion Working with French Realtors Inspections and Buying Advice The Buying Process Typically Takes 6 Months Var Highlights and Must Sees Perched Village Charm Skydiving and Gliders Accessibility in Hill Towns Meeting Neighbors Fast Pets and Moving Plans Work Transfers and Passports Patience and Due Diligence Financing with French Loans Verdon and Outdoor Life Thanks and Patron Support RER B Overhaul Updates Cathar Castles Revisited Layers of History and Farewell Next week on the podcast Copyright More episodes about moving to France

    57 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
91 Ratings

About

Planning a trip to France? Join Us in France is the podcast for you! On this podcast we have conversations about our trips to France, chat with tour guides, share tips on French culture, the basics of French history, explain how to be savvy traveler in France and share our love of French food, wine and destinations in France. You won't want to miss out on all these great conversations about one of the most beautiful countries on earth! Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. And if you're planning your own trip soon - start listening now so you're ready to connect to France on a deeper level. Bon voyage!

Information

  • Creator
    Annie Sargent
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2014 – 2022 All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Join Us in France Travel Podcast

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