Jan    I didn’t warm up to Carcassonne during my first visit years ago. I stayed inside the medieval city in August. It was hot, crowded, and honestly, a bit overwhelming. I left thinking it just wasn’t for me. But everything changed on my return visits, especially when I finally saw Carcassonne at night....

Jan    In June 2025, I finally made it to the French Open Roland-Garros While I didn’t manage to get into Centre Court (Court Philippe-Chatrier), I spent the day exploring the grounds, watching matches on the outside courts, and soaking up the excitement that fills the air. Best of all? My French Open...

Jan    Some moments in France stay etched in my memory, and one of those was in Étretat on the eve of Bastille Day. As fireworks (les feux d’artifice) burst into colour above the dramatic white cliffs of the Alabaster Coast (Côte d’Albâtre) and reflected over the English Channel, I just stood there,...

Jan    Ever heard of the Crit’Air Sticker (Vignette)? I hadn’t until a reader emailed me in a panic a while ago. Diane wrote: We are flying from Canada and staying in Paris for seven days before picking up our leased car. But it doesn’t seem possible to get the Crit’Air sticker in time..... Any advice?...

Jan    Every so often, a photo from my travels in France captures more than just a scene. It captures a memory, a feeling, or a connection to my journey. This image of a Citroën 2CV in Gordes during a rally is one of those. Gordes has a special place in my heart: it was the first... The post France...

Jan    It is estimated that there are more than 45,000 châteaux (castles) in France. Some, like Château de Versailles. Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Chambord have been beautifully restored; however, there are many that are still in ruins and for me, are just as beautiful. Whether it is getting...