Walking for Hope: A Christmas Quest to Rebuild and Inspire, Episode 525
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Release Date: 12/22/2024
A Solo Traveler's Experience in Southwest France
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
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. 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...
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Best of the Savoie Department: Courchevel, Chambéry, Alberville, etc.
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
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. 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...
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Living the Dream: Moving from Australia to Paris, Burgundy, and Provence
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Have you ever dreamed of leaving it all behind and Living the Dream in France? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Living the Dream: Moving from Australia to Paris, Burgundy, and Provence, Annie Sargent talks with Alexandra Lalak, an Australian travel and food writer who made the big move to France. Alexandra first landed in Paris, thinking she’d stay for just two years. But she fell in love with French life—and a Frenchman—and never left. She later moved to Burgundy, where she discovered the beauty of wine country and the joys of a slower, more rural...
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A Road Trip in Southwest France: Top Tips and Destinations, Episode 542
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Planning a road trip in southwest France and wondering where to start? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled "A Road Trip in Southwest France: Top Tips and Destinations," host Annie Sargent chats with guest Craig Anderson about a two-week itinerary through Occitanie, from Montpellier to Toulouse. Craig, a seasoned traveler from the U.S., shares how he and his wife Pamela explored the region by rental car, with stops in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Sète, Béziers, Carcassonne, Albi, Rabastens, and Toulouse. They dive into local experiences—like a wine tour with lunch...
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Corsica Revealed: Rich Culture, Cuisine, and Stunning Landscapes
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Thinking of exploring a French island that's wild, beautiful, and full of surprises? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Corsica Revealed: Rich Culture, Cuisine, and Stunning Landscapes, host Annie Sargent chats with tour guide Jean-François Sénéchal about his favorite island—Corsica. Jean-François lives in Tourrettes-sur-Loup, near Nice, but he has deep Corsican roots. His mother was born on the island, and his grandmother ran a hotel in Calvi. Today, he takes visitors on immersive, small-group tours around Corsica. In this episode, he shares what makes...
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Celebrating Cézanne in 2025: A Journey Through His Art and Legacy, Episode 540
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Why is 2025 being called Cézanne Year in France? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Celebrating Cézanne in 2025: A Journey Through His Art and Legacy, host Annie Sargent is joined by art historian and tour guide Elyse Rivin to explore the life, work, and influence of Paul Cézanne. Cézanne was born and died in Aix-en-Provence, and his art is deeply connected to the region. In 2025, the city will host a major exhibit at the Musée Granet, featuring over 50 works by the painter. Even more exciting, Cézanne’s long-closed family estate, Jas de Bouffan, is...
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Mother-Daughter Celebrating a 75th Birthday in France, Episode 539
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
What happens when a mother, daughter, and best friend set out on a road trip across France to celebrate a milestone birthday? In Celebrating 75 Years with Vanessa Christman, host Annie Sargent talks to Vanessa, a librarian from California, about the trip of a lifetime: Mother-Daughter Celebrating a 75th Birthday in France. Vanessa planned this adventure around her mom’s long-time love of France. They landed at Charles de Gaulle, picked up a rental car, and hit the road. From charming Burgundy villages like Tournus, to the sparkling Mediterranean coast near Martigues, to the lavender-scented...
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How to Plan for a Leisurely Trip to France
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Ever wondered how to plan a leisurely trip to France? In "How to Plan a Leisurely Trip to France with Carol Handel," host Annie Sargent explores the art of slow travel with guest Carol Handel from Sydney, Australia. Together, they dive into the joys of taking your time to explore France's charming destinations. Carol shares her journey from meticulous trip planning to creating her blog, French Views. She offers insights into selecting the perfect locations for a week-long stay, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture. Discover tips for cycling through picturesque landscapes...
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MasterChef’s Andrew Prior: From Australia to France
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Have you ever dreamed of leaving it all behind and starting fresh in France? In this episode, "MasterChef’s Andrew Prior: From Australia to France," host Annie Sargent chats with Andrew Prior about his incredible journey from Australia to France, his passion for French cuisine, and his time on MasterChef Australia. Andrew shares what inspired him to make the big move and how he turned his love for French food into a career. From leading food tours to launching his Fabulously Delicious podcast, he gives us an inside look at what it takes to embrace French culture through its cuisine. He also...
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Béziers Travel Guide: Top Attractions and Local Tips, Episode 536
Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Is Béziers really the oldest city in France? In Episode 536: Exploring Béziers, A Hidden Gem in the South of France, host Annie Sargent and guest Elyse Rivin dive into the fascinating history and charm of this underrated destination. Béziers sits in the Occitanie region, close to the Mediterranean. It has deep historical roots, from Roman times to the Cathar massacre and the winegrowers' revolt of 1907. Its Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire dominates the skyline, offering breathtaking views. The city’s streets lead to lively markets, including the recently renovated Les Halles de Béziers, where...
info_outlineWhat makes Christmas in France so special? How does a young man's incredible journey from London to Turkey tie into the spirit of giving? In this episode, host Annie Sargent explores the festive traditions of France and shares a conversation with Oscar Newsome Smith, a passionate advocate for rebuilding communities in southern Turkey after the devastating 2023 earthquakes.
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Annie begins by diving into the heart of Christmas in France. She paints a vivid picture of festive meals, family gatherings, and cherished customs like foie gras, bûche de Noël, and joyful caroling. Whether it's oysters and shrimp on Christmas Day or the warm glow of Christmas markets, Annie brings the magic of French holiday traditions to life.
The episode takes a thoughtful turn as Oscar Newsome Smith joins Annie to share his story. At just 27, Oscar embarked on a remarkable journey, walking from London to Turkey to raise awareness and funds for an eco-community in Samandağ, a region heavily affected by the earthquakes. Oscar talks about the challenges he’s faced, the generosity of strangers, and his vision for a more sustainable future.
This episode is a heartwarming blend of holiday cheer and hope in action. Tune in to be inspired and reminded of the power of compassion, determination, and the true spirit of Christmas.
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