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By Hannah Noye It’s hardly possible to believe that Mont Saint-Michel is not a fictional place from a fairytale, such is its out of this world beauty. This stunning tidal island located off the coast of Normandy, France is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, rich history, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The island is dominated by the famed Abbey of Saint Michel, a towering Gothic structure of turrets and brick that sits atop a rocky outcropping. The surrounding winding streets and long alleys, lined with medieval houses and quaint shops and restaurants are testaments to the islands long and storied past. Mont Saint-Michel was first used as a monastery in the 8th century, when the bishop of Avranches founded a small chapel on the island. Over the years, the monastery and Abbey grew in size and importance, eventually drawing pilgrimage from those all over Europe. In the centuries that followed, Mont Saint Michel became a symbol of French resistance against English invaders. During the Hundred Years War, the island was besieged several times, but it always managed to hold out against the English forces. It wasn't until the 17th century that Mont Saint Michel was turned into a prison, a role it continued to serve until 1863. Today, Mont Saint Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. It is interesting enough to simply take a day to walk around the unique layout of the island and its little gems – the views of the surrounding landscape and the ocean stretching into the distance are gorgeous. If you seek more historical insight into the islands past, then you can take a guided tour of the Abbey and island with the expert knowledge of a passionate French local. The Abbey is a real highlight, a beautiful and massive echoing building with high ceilings and windows, a sacred space in many ways. There are also several exhibitions and museums available that offer cultural and historical displays. Mont Saint-Michel is located in a tidal bay which can rise and fall very quickly. The tides as they move around the sides of the island can be a source of relaxation and introspection. It is a beautiful environment in which you can enjoy a quiet moment and the spectacular beauty of Normandy. Mont Saint-Michel celebrated its 1000th year anniversary on April the 8th this past month. In its 1000 years it has never ceased to attract visitors with its beauty and cultural significance. Accessible only via a pedestrian bridge, or a causeway, and without the cars and other modern machinations of modern life, it is a place perfectly preserved despite the passing years. See its magnificent silhouette and medieval architecture on our Jewels of the North tour next year!

By Hannah Noye Even if you aren’t an avid art fan, I would be shocked if you were not familiar with the works of Claude Monet. His famous impressionist artworks, particularly those of the water lilies in his garden can be appreciated by anyone with a love of beauty and nature. In 1883 Monet purchased a house and gardens in the small village of Giverny in the Normandy region of France, and dedicated the rest of his life to cultivating the gardens that inspired his pieces. Amazingly, these gardens are still open today and we will be visiting next year on our newest tour! If you are familiar with Monet’s works, entering his garden will be like walking into a painting. At every corner there is the potential to see the subject of one of his paintings; to see two dimensional reflections of a garden in 100 year old artworks still before you in all its continuing life and beauty is an overwhelming feeling. To stand in the same enduring garden as Monet is an opportunity to be connected to history, and to enter the mindset of the artist and his process. Monet’s pink house rises like a spring flower itself from the gardens. This is also open for exploration – in small numbers at a time you can see his art space and living quarters, preserved as they were when he lived and painted there. The gardens are divided into two main areas, the Clos Normand and the Water Garden. The Clos Normand is a flower garden of many differing blooms, including tulips, roses, peonies, and more that change with the seasons. The garden is divided into flowerbeds and is bordered by paths and hedges. The Water Garden is probably the more recognizable part of the gardens, the Japanese Bridge, weeping willows, and lily pond being the subject of many paintings. Monet was particularly inspired by the reflections of the sky and trees in the water, and he would often paint the same scene throughout the year to capture the changing of the seasons and its effect on the nature around him. This magically preserved piece of the past is worthy of a long stroll and the perfect place to sit, ponder and appreciate the garden, as Monet did in capturing its many faces in his work. His love for the garden is what has made it so renowned and allows so many others to see it themselves! There is of course a wonderful giftshop with prints of his art and other fun souvenirs, and lovely restaurants/cafes in Giverny if you seek refreshments. This is not a day to be missed – whether you enjoy art or not, this is a wonderful spot with much to see. We’ll see you there!

By Hannah Noye You have probably heard of mythic sources of water with magical properties. The fountain of youth is one particularly famous example, appearing in writings going back nearly 2000 years. That famous spring is mythic, with no one knowing it’s supposed location, whether it be real or fake. Mythical water springs and sources with healing or magical powers are scattered through legends and stories through history – but one of these revered springs really does exist, and it exists in the town of Lourdes, France. The spring is known for its supposed healing properties, and attracts millions of visitors each year, many of whom come to bathe in the holy waters and seek a cure for their ailments. It's located within the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a Catholic shrine built on the site where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young peasant girl named Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. Bernadette claimed to have seen a "Lady" in the Grotto of Massabielle, who asked her to dig in the ground. When Bernadette obeyed, a spring appeared, which the Lady told her to drink from and wash in. Bernadette did so, and soon after, many people began to claim that they were cured of various illnesses and disabilities after visiting the spring. The news of the miraculous spring quickly spread, and people began to flock to Lourdes in large numbers, seeking cures for their own ailments. The Catholic Church eventually recognized the apparitions and the healing powers of the spring, and in 1874, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes was established to accommodate the thousands of pilgrims who were coming to visit. Today, the Lourdes spring is a major destination for Catholics and non-Catholics alike, with over six million visitors each year. The waters of the spring are believed by many to have healing properties, and visitors can bathe in them or drink them from taps located throughout the sanctuary. The site is also home to several chapels, churches, and other religious monuments, as well as a museum and several hotels and restaurants. While the healing powers of the Lourdes spring are not scientifically proven, many people believe that their faith and prayers have been instrumental in their own personal healing experiences. Regardless of one's beliefs, the spring and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes offer a unique and fascinating glimpse into the power of faith and the human quest for healing. If you’re interested in visiting this famous landmark, let us know! We offer bespoke tours for those that have specific interests, or are seeking specific things in their French journey. We are also always working on new tour ideas for our set tours, so if this appeals to you please don’t hesitate to tell us via social media or the website! Whether you seek physical healing or simply want to experience the beauty and spiritual energy of this sacred site, the Lourdes spring is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Thanks for reading, and bonne nuit!

By Hannah Noye What would you say if I told you that at the Chateau of Versailles in France, you can travel through time? You can live as the nobility of yonder, strolling the most beautiful rooms and grounds of the palace unfettered by the masses of tourists. You can even attend an extravagant ball alongside the rest of high society, all the while garbed in the finest clothes of the 18th century. All of this is true! Well, ‘travel through time,’ may be an exaggeration, but it will certainly feel like you have. The French Company ‘Chateau de Versailles Spectacles,’ holds events year round, though two of them certainly stand out from the rest. Les Fêtes Galantes Are you a Marquis/Marquess? A king or queen? Or maybe a Duke/Duchess? Or the reigning ‘Doge’, meaning head of state? These are the ticket options for Les Fêtes Galantes, a May event held in the Hall of mirrors at Versailles. The website is very clear that all of these tickets require that you be dressed in a quality baroque style outfit for the magical occasion, or else you will not be permitted entry. They are serious about the authenticity of the night! The name purportedly comes from the traditional French fêtes galantes, which were garden parties that were popular among the aristocracy during the 17th and 18th centuries, and which Louis XV was apparently known to hold in the Versailles gardens. These festivities included music, and dance as well as general merrymaking. The evening begins from 6-7pm depending on ticket – higher priced tickets provide earlier access and thus more privacy. There are several rooms in the palace that are open to guests during the event, each with its own theme and entertainment, including dance classes in the Contredanse, a dance classic of the 17th century French court, or a concert of live music in the Royal Chapel. Guests can, throughout the evening, dance to music played by live orchestras, watch performances by actors and dancers, and enjoy food and drink at various stations throughout the palace.For higher ranks of ticket there is also the opportunity to tour the private chambers of the King (Louis XV), Madame du Barry (his mistress), or the Mesdames (the unmarried daughters of Louis XV.) The bottom tier of ticket (Marquis/Marquess) gets a solitary glass of champagne, but all other levels have access to all-inclusive buffet until 11pm, with reportedly very good food. This is followed by a closing ball in which one and all come together to dance classically, before closing the night by a firework viewing from the Hall of Mirrors out onto the grounds. What a unique and fascinating opportunity to experience the opulence and extravagance of the French court and the Chateau’s beauty by night. It is no surprise that these tickets are extremely sought after. To walk where the nobles walked, to do what they did, to exist within the most glamorous parts of the Chateau in a capacity unavailable to the majority of visitors – it is an intimate glimpse into a lifestyle that no longer exists, but holds an innate appeal to many. Without the humdrum of thousands of tourists, perhaps you will hear the whispers of the Chateau and its famed inhabitants a little more clearly. Come in your baroque attire, dancing and making merry just as those who did the same centuries before. The Chateau is often a museum, more of a place perused and photographed by those in the 21st century but when you take the time to celebrate the place and fully live in it, the Chateau will come alive, the gardens, halls and chambers embracing you as someone who belongs. Greet Versailles as a friend and let it whisk you away – to the 17th century. Check out this video to learn more. Le Grand Bal Masqué Every year in June the Grand Masked ball is held in the gardens around the Orangerie, a majestic cathedral at the heart of the French garden. 2500 guests flock to attend, dressed to the nines in period appropriate gowns, wigs, waistcoats – and of course, masks. The ball draws its inspiration from the 1745 Yew Ball, or ‘Bal des Ifs’ held by King Louis XV to celebrate the marriage of the Dauphin Louis to Maria Teresa Rafaela of Spain. The underlying intent though, was actually for the king to pursue a young woman he had set his sights on to become his next Mistress. Does Madame de Pompadour ring a bell? The Yew Ball was the first occasion they were thought to have contact, preceding a long love affair. Thousands of guests including members of the royal court, foreign dignitaries, wealthy aristocrats and even those of more common birth attended this event. Part of what made this so fun was the fact that the guests were required to wear masks (some wore more elaborate disguises) so they could mingle incognito – the King and Queen themselves joined in, making valiant attempts at wearing costumes that would make them unrecognizable, though of course this didn’t always work. Unlike the current Grand Masked Ball, the Masked ball took place in the Hall of mirrors, lavishly decorated with tapestries, chandeliers and (of course) mirrors. Sumptuous feasting, large live orchestra, elaborate costumes – masked balls became quite a popular party choice at Versailles, are famous for showing the excesses and wealth of the French Monarchy. They are also famous for sounding like a darn good time – which is why, I suppose, they have been bought back! Today, the party starts at 11:30pm and is something of a rave. Each year the ball takes on a different overall theme, and transforms the gardens into a magical new world with light shows, elaborate performances, dancers, and live music. Of course there is food and wine – it is a ball of course! Can you imagine a night of dancing and singing in the beautiful gardens of the Chateau in the costume of an 18th century noble? The scent of night air and sound of music surrounding you as you join others to recreate the unabashed and outrageous parties of luxury and ecstasy of the French court? Watch this video see the joie de vivre firsthand. Let us know if a visit to Versailles on an upcoming tour would appeal to you! We love to hear suggestions and feedback from our travellers, and we also offer custom tour plans. Until next time... Au Revoir!

by Hannah Noye How quickly March has arrived! It feels like 2023 just started yesterday but already we are making headway into the third month of the year. Of course this also means that our French tours later this year are fast approaching. ‘La Belle Vie’ tour starts in June, while ‘A taste of France’ starts in late August. Details for these carefully refined cultural experiences can be found on our website at https://www.francetravelsolutions.com/france-tours-2023-2024, and please don’t hesitate to contact us through Instagram or Facebook for bespoke tours! For those who do make the life enriching decision to travel on one of our tours this year, it is time to start getting excited! In this weeks blog, we are going to do something a little different. We often discuss travel locations or French customs, but this week let’s learn a little more about the French language. Ooh la la! You know those strange expressions and idioms in English like ‘it’s raining cats and dogs’ and ‘to kick the bucket’ and ‘the bees knees?’ Well we are not unique. Other languages have ones that directly translated to our ears would sound utterly bizarre, as ours sound to theirs! Here are 10 of the most interesting French idioms to help you understand the French language and people – or at least to give you a laugh. 1. Faire la grasse matinée – This is a fun one! It means ‘To engage in the fat morning,’ or rather, to sleep in late 2. Mettre la puce à l'oreille This translates directly to ‘put a flea in someone’s ear’ and means making someone suspicious or arousing someone’s suspicion! 3. Avoir le cafard – On a sad note, this in English means ‘to have the cockroach', and means feeling depressed or down - but the cockroach part is funny! 4. Tomber dans les pommes – Translating to ‘To fall in the apples’ this one is used to describe fainting 5. Avoir une araignée au plafond - "To have a spider on the ceiling," this idiom is used when someone is crazy or eccentric – in English we might say someone has ‘bats in the belfry’ or ‘isn’t alright upstairs.’ 6. Poser un lapin – ‘To leave a rabbit,’ this one means getting stood up. Not sure what the rabbit has to do with it but its fun nonetheless! 7. Avoir le cul bordé de nouilles - Literally meaning "to have one's butt lined with noodles," this idiom is used to describe someone who is incredibly lucky. I don’t think I’d feel very lucky in such a state. 8. Courir sur le Haricot – Translated this means ‘To run on my bean.’ If someone tells you that you are running on their bean it means that you are getting on their nerves. 9. En faire tout un fromage – ‘To make a big cheese of everything’ or to unnecessarily make a big fuss of something. 10. S'occuper de ses oignons.” This one is my favourite! It literally means ‘to take care of ones onions,’ but translates to minding ones own business. There are plenty more of these worth reading so let us know if you find any! At any rate, hopefully this will be a good basis for you. Maybe you can throw these into your next conversation with a French person and impress them! À toute à l'heure!

By Hannah Noye We invite you to discover four incredible castles and much more during our 4 days in the astonishing Loire Valley region. These places of splendor hold a romantic and historical allure. Did you know why the French kings moved to the Loire Valley in the 16th century? The region was particularly well situated geographically and economically for trade, as the Loire river was the last wild river that flowed freely to the open ocean without the hindrance of dams. Also being a landscape of extreme beauty, it was perfect for the construction of luxurious homes, an escape for the Kings following the 100 year war. We will be visiting four of these beautiful Châteaux on our La Belle Vie tour this year as we make our way through the most beautiful French regions. Let us make their acquaintance, in preparation. Château d'Amboise This is the first Château we visit, on day 14 of the trip. As per its name, it is located in the town of Amboise in the Indre-et-Loire department in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. The day starts with a morning trip to the popular Amboise markets along the banks of the river Loire, before we will make the easy walk to where the chateau is perched on a hill overlooking the Loire River and the town of Amboise. This castle has been steeped in the history of noblemen and kings since it was first built as a fortress in the 11th century. The highlights of its history include It was originally built by the Counts of Anjou to protect against Norman invasions. King Charles VII of France transformed It into a royal residence in the 15th century, and it became a favourite residence of subsequent kings and queens including Louis XI, Charles VIII, and Francis I. Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life at the Château of Amboise as a guest of Francis I, eventually dying there and being buried nearby. During the French Revolution, the revolutionary government seized it and used it as a prison, many notable figures, such as the Duke of Orleans and mathematician Jean le Rond d’Alembert spending time there. In the 19th century, the Château was restored by the French government and opened to the public as a museum. There will also be the opportunity to see many of the Château's beautiful architectural features, including the including impressive defensive towers and the Gothic chapel. There will be a chance to walk the illustrious gardens, and perhaps have a picnic by the Loire with the fresh market bread and cheese we purchased earlier, while enjoying the view across the rooftops of Amboise. Château of Chenonceau On the same day as Amboise, we will head to the Château of Chenonceau, situated in the town of Chenonceaux. It is also located in the Indre-et-Loire department, and is known for its unique bridge structure, Renaissance style gardens, and its nickname Château des Dames in honor of the women who contributed to its creation and upkeep. Let us look briefly into its long and varied history: The Château was built in the early 16th century by Thomas Bohier, a wealthy financier and royal treasurer to King Francis I of France. Remember King Francis? He frequented the Château of Amboise! In the 16th century, the Château was acquired by King Henry II of France as a gift for his mistress, Diane de Poitiers. Diane oversaw the construction of the Château's famous arched bridge, which spans the Cher River. After the death of King Henry II, his wife Catherine de' Medici took ownership of the chateau and made significant additions and renovations to the property. Catherine also commissioned the creation of the Château's extensive gardens. The Château was used in both World Wars, as a hospital for wounded soldiers in WW1, and as an escape route to smuggle refugees and Resistance fighters across the Cher River in WW2. Today, the Château is one of the most visited and most photographed places in all of France. Château du Petit Thouars This Château is a little smaller than the others, but no less beautiful. It is less known, but presents an opportunity to see Château's of all types and the history that they are tied to. We will visit the Château du Petit Thouars on day 15 where we will tour the Château's cellar and wine cave, known as the ‘Chai.’ We will also enjoy a wonderful picnic lunch in the vines overlooking the idyllic Loire Valley vineyards. Some interesting information about the Château du Petit Thouars: The château dates back to the 14th century and was originally built as a fortress to protect the region against attacks from English armies during the Hundred Years' War. The château has been owned by the same family, the du Petit Thouars, for over 500 years. The current owner is Count Antoine du Petit Thouars. The château played an important role in the French Resistance during World War II. The castle served as a base for the Resistance, and its underground tunnels were used to hide Jewish refugees and Resistance fighters. The castle also produces its own wine, which is available for purchase in the château's wine cellar. Château de Chambord Finally on Day 16, we will visit the Château de Chambord, which is aptly situated in the town of Chambord. More than a castle, it's a work of art, a grandiose sacred place, a trip to the heart of the Valley of the Kings! We’ll have an audio guided tour of the unique monument as defined by its architecture and proportions. Leonardo da Vinci likely took part in its conception. With more than 400 rooms and the double-spiral staircase, Chambord is a highlight of the Loire Valley and to our trip. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in France… let us see once more a brief idea of its history so far: · The Château was built in the early 16th century as a hunting lodge for King Francis I of France. He seems to be a running figure through these Châteaux! It was designed by the Italian architect Domenico da Cortona, and its construction took nearly 30 years. · The Château is known for its unique architecture, which combines elements of medieval fortress design with Italian Renaissance style. It has a central keep with four wings radiating out from it, and is surrounded by a moat and a large park. · The Château was the site of many important historical events, including the signing of the Edict of Chambord in 1552, which granted religious freedom to French Protestants. · During the French Revolution, the Château was looted and damaged, and many of its furnishings and decorations were sold or destroyed. It was later restored in the 19th century by the French government. · The Château is home to a collection of Renaissance-era art and furnishings, including tapestries, sculptures, and paintings. It also has a famous double helix staircase, which was allegedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci. So let's travel to these glorious castles and see all that they can tell us about French history, and the customs and stories of those who lived within them. See the limited spaces left for April, May, July and September 2024 La Belle Vie tour departure dates on on our website now! Merci beaucoup!

When it comes to accommodations, we believe that the experience should be about the clients and the benefits that they can enjoy during their stay. In France, there are many accommodations that cater to different needs and preferences. It is essential to choose the right type of accommodation to live the experience you deserve. One of the biggest benefits of staying in a boutique hotel in the heart of a busy city is convenience. With everything at your doorstep, you can maximise your time and experience the city to the fullest. You don't have to worry about transportation or getting lost in unfamiliar surroundings, as you can simply walk to any attraction you desire. This can help you make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. You “Live your Parisian Life”. Staying in an apartment with a private, fully equipped kitchenette offers a unique and authentic experience for those who want to indulge in the local flavours and live like the locals. With the ability to browse local markets and pick up fresh produce, you can create your own meals and savor the authentic taste of the region. This is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in French culture and get a taste of what it's like to live like a local. For those seeking a more personalised and intimate experience, staying in a traditional guesthouse is the ideal choice. With hosts who are passionate about looking after their guests, you can enjoy a warm and welcoming stay with a genuine French touch. With unique and charming accommodations, you can truly feel like you're living in a piece of history. With the opportunity to indulge in the "Table d'Hôtes" experience, you can also taste the region's best recipes and learn about the culture and history of the dishes. A home-cooked cuisine with wine. Your host will showcase some of the region's best recipes. At France Travel Solutions, we believe that the benefits of our accommodations extend far beyond just a place to rest your head. By traveling with us, you can truly immerse yourself in French culture, connect with the locals, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. So, if you're looking for a unique and personalized travel experience that caters to your preferences and needs, look no further.

Throughout my life, I have personally experienced the vast snow playgrounds of so many places including the exquisite Pyrenees, the French Alps, Japan, Australia, and NZ, and I have developed the desire to share my passion and expertise with you.Here are our top 5 reasons why you should choose France for your next ski holiday Large linked Ski Areas France is known for its picturesque mountain scenery, with many of its ski resorts offering breathtaking views of the Alps and Pyrenees. But did you know that France has the largest linked ski areas in the world? Les 3 Vallées, located in the Savoie, encompasses the resorts of Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens, Les Menuires, and Saint Martin de Belleville. With up to 600km of linked pistes available in Les 3 Vallées and many more in Portes du Soleil, Tignes Val d'Isere, Mont Blanc, Grand Massif or Paradiski, there are a range of slopes to enjoy from beginner to expert, and a variety of off-piste skiing opportunities. Ski areas develop and modernise their facilities regularly and generally this means improvements to the ski lifts. This makes the journey up the mountain quicker and more comfortable. Reliable Snow France has some of the world's most reliable ski areas, with many resorts built solely for the purpose of swift access to the very best conditions. Much of the skiing in France is at high altitude (above 2000m), which contributes to improved snow conditions & long seasons in the major resorts. The season generally lasts from December to May, and some are even open in the French summer! Val Thorens, part of Les 3 Vallées, is also the highest resort in France with the village itself at 2300m - and that’s just the village itself! Most resorts have lift-accessed slopes to 3000m or higher. For its yummy Cuisine and “après ski” Along with the wide open spaces and beautiful scenery, the Alpine region of France is home to some of the best food in the world. Because of its status as a popular tourist destination, there are plenty of restaurants and “après ski” activities catering for locals, seasonal international workers and leisured visitors. While guaranteed snow and huge ski areas are the main reason to take a ski holiday in France, there’s plenty of other winter activities to challenge yourself or re-energise with. From gourmet dining and wine tasting to shopping and cultural events, there is plenty to experience. Within its strong French culture, the Savoy region maintained their traditions, using local fresh ingredients, techniques and recipes that have stood the test of time. The local Alps’ dishes are known as simple, honest, delicious, and generous. Such dishes span from the subtropical Mediterranean coast near Nice, to Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Plenty of choice of regional recipes like Sausages, charcuteries, cheese fondues, raclette, Tartiflette, mouth-watering local wines, cheese again, and desserts, will clearly enhance and comfort your appetite after a long day on the slopes in the fresh mountain air. Peak time snow season and no crowd Frances off season matches Australia’s summer school holidays which means low crowds and big mid-winter snowfall in January. Imagine having Les 3 Vallées of Courchevel, Meribel, Val-Thorens, and les Menuires to yourself. Imagine yourself up above the clouds in one of the many quality restaurants, taking your time to enjoy the view of Le Mont Blanc , with hot wine in hand as you warm up from the pure and fresh oxygen… Value for money lift passes You might be surprised to learn that compared with NZ, Japan and Australia, lift passes in France are much better value for money – as long as you avoid the busy season. In January 2022, our family paid the 8 day-pass for $70 per person per day, including 3 hours of daily ski school for the kids at Les Menuires Les 3 Vallées for our family of 4. The French Alps own the biggest resort in the world, as well as some of the highest peaks in Europe. Home to renowned ski resorts with quality snow and lift systems, fantastic après ski options, and epic terrain, it’s not surprising that France is a world-class ski holiday destination for beyond ordinary ski experiences. France Travel Solutions is taking registration of interest for anyone wanting to experience a wonderful white Christmas in the snow, or alternatively wanting to experience other regions like Alsace, and beautiful villages like Colmar or Annecy in the French winter.

I think it is safe to say that Dom Pérignon is a very recognizable brand name, even for those not well acquainted with champagne. For those few of you still unsure, champagne is what Dom Pérignon represents. Indeed it is arguably the most famous and well respected champagne in the world. It is produced by the French fine winery group of Moët et Chandon, a brand that is synonymous with glamour and luxury. Something that was news to me when I looked into this subject was that Dom Pérignon was a real person! In fact, its been widely spread for years that he was the inventor of champagne, and was known for saying the words ‘come quickly I am tasting the stars,’ after his first taste of the sparkling wine. However, this has been widely disproved as there is no evidence to suggest he invented champagne, which is thought to have been first created intentionally by Benedictine monks in the French Abbey of Saint-Hilaire in 1531. The real significance of Dom Pérignon is not to be overlooked however! He was in fact a great contributor towards the eventual production of sparkling wine, even if he wasn’t the initial producer. Born in 1638, in the Champagne region, he was a French Benedictine monk who came to the Abbey of Hautvillers in 1668 as cellarer, a position overseeing the production of wines. In his time re-fermation of the wine, which is the process that is used to achieve sparkling wine, was considered highly unfavorable. If a bottle was re fermented accidentally while being stored with the other wines the unprecedented pressure build up meant the bottle could explode and break a large amount of stock. Bubbly wine was called ‘vin du diable’ or ‘The Devils Wine’ for this very reason! Dom Pérignon was esteemed for his work. He was noted for advancements in the creation of white wine, somehow making it out of red grapes! He also re-introduced the classic cork in the champagne region for their wine storage. Furthermore, he invented the famous ‘Coquard Press’ a device used to extract juice from the grapes, and cultivated the practice of blending wines from many vineyards to enrich the blend and flavor. He was absolutely making strides for the world of champagne, establishing its most characteristic features, and setting the wheels in motion for the bubbly drink we all know and love. It’s crazy to think that he probably had a very quiet life of wine production – and never would have thought that one day his name would be on the most famous bottle in the world! Up until 1927 the trademark of Dom Pérignon's name belonged to Mercier Champagne, and was only bequeathed to Moët et Chandon when a Mercier daughter married a Moët son. It sounds a bit like sparkling wine’s version of Romeo and Juliet, but without the more unsavory elements. What a great, and very profitable wedding gift that turned out to be for Moët! You might have seen a little video we put up the other day on Facebook and Instagram, and if you haven’t feel free to check it out – it’s just a couple clips of the train ride deep within the wine cellars of the Mercier wine house. As the initial owners of the Pérignon title, they have more information and history to share than we could ever cover here! La Belle Vie tour 2023 with France Travel Solutions offers our travellers the opportunity to tour the wine house and vineyards and to take the audio-guided cellar tour on the little underground train ride through history – with displays and art to help illustrate the fascinating stories of Champagne Mercier and Dom Pérignon.

Bonjour! Did you know that up until 2016 there were 22 regions of metropolitan France? That’s not even counting the 5 overseas regions under French rule. In 2016 there was a large scale territorial reform to better adapt to the modern economy, which meant some regions were combined to make new ones. The outcome was 13 regions within metropolitan France as well as the additional 5 overseas. It's not news to anyone how famous France is for its culture of fine food and wine, and so today we want to take a look at some of the most iconic meals for each region. Of course, it would be naïve to label them the ‘best’ dish of each region, as there are so many unique and diverse dishes that we cannot decisively name one the winner! However, this list certainly serves as a great start in showing the wonderful gastronomy this country has to offer. Buckle up and get ready to lick your lips at the cuisine to follow. The 13 regions of the French Mainland Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (previously Auvergne and Rhône-Alpes.) Potée auvergnate Potée auvergnate is a hearty stew made with pork belly, ham hocks, sausages, potatoes, cabbage, and leeks. This dish is a classic example of the rustic, comforting cuisine of the Auvergne region and is typically enjoyed during the colder months. Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (previously Burgundy and Franche-Comté) Coq au Vin One of the most iconic dishes native to the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France is "coq au vin". This classic dish consists of chicken braised in red wine, bacon, mushrooms, onions, and garlic, and is typically served with boiled potatoes or a crusty bread. The Burgundy region is known for its rich, full-bodied red wines and flavourful dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Bretagne Galettes Bretonnes The Galettes Bretonne is a thin, crepe-like pancakes made from buckwheat flour, salt, water, and sometimes milk. They are typically savoury and filled with ingredients such as cheese, eggs, ham, and mushrooms, and served as a main dish. Another iconic dish from Brittany is "croustillant de sarrasin", which is savoury turnover often comprised of ingredients such as ham and cheese or cream cheese and salmon. Centre-Val de Loire Râble de lièvre à la royale". The star of this dish is a saddle of hare (râble) that is marinated in red wine, garlic, and herbs, and then braised until tender. The braising liquid is then thickened to create a rich, flavorful sauce that is served over the hare. Voila! Corse Figatelli Figatelli is a type of spicy sausage made from pork liver and flavored with herbs and spices, such as rosemary and red pepper. It is typically grilled or fried and served as a main dish or snack, and is often paired with other Corsican specialties such as brocciu cheese and chestnuts. Grand Est (previously Alsace, Champagne-Ardennes and Lorraine) Choucroute Garnie Choucroute garnie is a dish of sauerkraut (choucroute) that is then topped with an assortment of cured meats, such as ham, sausages, and bacon, and sometimes potatoes. These hearty flavors are classics of the Alsace region! We mention this dish in our post on the Strasbourg christmas markets as well. Hauts-de-France (Previously Nord, Pas-de-Calais and Picardie) potjevleesh One of the most famous dishes from the Hauts-de-France region of France is "potjevleesh". Potjevleesh is a traditional dish made from finely minced raw pork mixed with eggs and spices, then molded into a jelly-like texture and cooked in a broth. It is typically served cold, sliced and garnished with gherkins and mustard. Île-de-France Escargots de Bourgogne You have probably heard of this one! Escargots de Bourgogne are snails cooked in garlic butter and served in their shells as an appetizer. This region of France, encompassing the famous city of Paris, is widely considered to be of the greatest culinary regions of France with a particular focus for fine dining! This starter is an example of very uniquely French flavours, and is most closely associated with Burgundy. Normandie (Previously Upper and Lower Normandy) Tarte Tatin Our first dessert on the list is here and it is fabulous. Tarte Tatin is an upside-down caramelized apple tart that is made by cooking sliced apples in caramel and then covering them with a layer of puff pastry. The dish is baked until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender, then inverted onto a serving platter to reveal the caramelized fruit on top. This is such a classic delight, and one that anyone who likes apple pies or similar dessert will be super excited to try! Nouvelle-Aquitaine (Previously Aquitaine, Limousin and Poitou-Charentes) Duck Confit One of the most famous dishes from the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France is "duck confit". Duck confit is made by cooking duck legs in their own fat until they are tender. The legs are then stored in the fat, which helps to preserve them and add flavor. To serve, the legs are heated in a pan and then served with a variety of accompaniments, such as roasted potatoes or a mixed green salad. Occitanie (Previously Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées) Cassoulet Cassoulet is a stew made with white beans, and meats such as as duck, pork sausage, and mutton, and garden vegetables such as carrots, onions, and garlic. The ingredients are slowly simmered in a casserole dish until they have melded together. Cassoulet is often served as a main course and is a staple dish in the cuisine of the southwestern part of France. Pays de la Loire Plateau de fruits de mer Those who love maritime dishes will appreciate this one! One of the most famous dishes from the Pays de la Loire region of France is "plateau de fruits de mer". Plateau de fruits de mer, or much more simply, ‘seafood platter’, is a dish consisting of a variety of freshly caught seafood, such as oysters, clams, lobster, and shrimp, arranged on a large platter or tray. The seafood is usually served raw or lightly cooked and is accompanied by condiments, such as lemon wedges and a sauce vierge (a sauce made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs). The Pays de la Loire region is located on the Atlantic coast of France and so has abundant seafood resources and is perfectly located for quality seafood dishes. Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Ratatouille I’m sure you’ve watched the Disney film, but Ratatouille has been famous throughout France since long ago. Ratatouille is a vegetable stew made with a mixture of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and garlic. The ingredients are often presented in a spiraling pattern of overlaid slices of vegetable. Ratatouille is often served as a main course or as a side dish, and is a staple of the cuisine of the southeastern part of France. The 5 overseas regions These overseas regions are located in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean, and are overseas departments and territories of France, meaning they are an integral part of the French Republic and enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as mainland France. They have a unique cultural and culinary heritage, reflecting the blend of French and African, Indian, and Creole influences. Guadeloupe Dombrés Dombrés, known as dombwé in Guadeloupe Creole, are tiny meat dumplings cooked in stew and flavoured with various vegetables and spices. The dumplings are created from tiny balls of cooked flour to which a sauce is added and then a meat or meat substitute of choice, ranging from crab, red beans, pork, chicken, etc. The dish is thought to have its roots in the cuisine of West Africans who were brought to Guadeloupe to work on sugar plantations, and has since evolved as it is passed down generations. It reflects the islands long history and the its cultural heritage of Caribbean, African, and French influence. Martinique Colombo de Porc The most famous dish from the Martinique region of France is "Colombo de Porc," a spicy stew made with pork, vegetables, and spices such as turmeric and cumin. Guyane Rougail Saucisse "Rougail Saucisse," is a dish made with spicy sausages simmered in a sauce of tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with rice. The simplicity of the recipe and ingredients along with how warming and hearty the dish is, has made this a staple of Guyanese cuisine! La Réunion Cari Poulet This dish, distinctive of La Reunion, can most be likened to a chicken curry. It is made with chicken, vegetables, and spiced with turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Mayotte Langouste à la Vanille This final dish is a very interesting flavour combination! The chosen dish of the Mayotte region is "Langouste à la Vanille.” This is made up of a lobster, typically steamed or boiled, that is then served with a creamy vanilla sauce. Though said sauce varies a little from recipe to recipe, it generally is made with ingredients such as butter, heavy cream, white wine, vanilla beans or extract, and varied seasonings. For many this may seem an unlikely combination but this dish is considered a delicacy and is often served in upscale restaurants. The combination of sweet vanilla with the rich flavor of lobster creates a unique and luxurious dining experience, and represents the unique palette and dynamic cooking style of the Mayotte region. Well if you've made it this far then you can proudly say that you are now at least somewhat knowledgeable on the subject of French cuisine! Of course, photos only serve to make the mouth water. To taste and smell these decadent flavors, or at least those on the mainland of France, have a look at our 2023/2024 tour offerings, which go through a large number of the regions listed above and will certainly provide opportunities to try these wonders! Until next time, Bisous!

By Hannah Noye Bonjour! Let’s travel together to one of the locations that we visit in both of our tours, La Belle Vie tour, and A taste of France Tour. Known as France’s Venice, the town of L’isle sur La Sorgue is a small and quintessentially French town of warm toned buildings, summer flowers, and quaint bridges crossing the canals that weave throughout. It rests in the Vaucluse region of France in Provence, not far from Avignon, and is blessed with a Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are warm and cheerful, and winters are mild. The towns Sunday flea markets are what the village is most celebrated for, drawing tourists and locals alike. The charming atmosphere and picturesque setting of the town is only enhanced by the market stalls set up on the banks of the Sorgue River. Cheerful tourists mill between stalls offering everything from antiques, vintage items, collectibles, hand-made soaps, as well as classic provincial cheese, wine, and desserts. The market is considered of the largest of its kind within Europe, and its notable range of antiques and vintage items attracts many collectors. The market, also known as the "brocante" (antique market), is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, when dealers and collectors from Paris would travel to the small town to buy and sell antiques and collectibles. During World War II, many Parisians were forced to flee the city and those who moved to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue brought with them their furniture and other household items. Many of them began selling their belongings at the Sunday market leading to the eclectic style of offerings it is famous for! Imagine waking at a classically French bed & breakfast to the beautiful sound of the cicadas and the joie de vivre classic of the French in knowing that their is no rushed day awaiting you, but one of ease and relaxation. We will then spend a wonderful summer morning strolling the cobblestone streets, trying various provincial foods, and perusing the variety of the market. Imagine the sun on your back, the cheerful chatter of the crowd slowly moving, and the smell of lavender in the air – by virtue of being in Provence, of course dried lavender, or lavender infused products such as soaps and candles are bountiful within the market! Imagine also, the numerous water wheels scattered throughout the river. The river Sorgue is fed by several smaller streams and springs in the surrounding area. The town's economy has historically been largely reliant on its waterwheels which have been used for centuries to power local industries such as paper mills and textile factories. The biggest source of water for the Sorgue comes from La Fontaine de Vaucluse, a spring located in a limestone cave in the Vaucluse Mountains. This is the largest spring in France, and notably of the most powerful in the world! The water from the spring is crystal clear and is used for irrigation, as well as for the production of bottled water. This spring has been celebrated in literature and art, and is famous for inspiring the famous poet Petrarch, and the French troubadours. There is a deep sense of connectivity to be felt in places such as these. Australia is a beautiful country with its own deep and unique history, and it is well documented that the nomadic nature of the Indigenous Australians means there was little need for architectural monuments or buildings, and so it is not common to see especially old buildings in our home country. This is of course is part of the appeal of Australia, in that it's spirit is most connected to through the land itself. However there is something equally moving to see structures and monuments that have been integral and traditional parts of communities for years and years, and are still functioning today, and hold within them a longstanding story. Not only are they of a whimsical and picturesque beauty, but they are, in the case of the water wheel, representative of the French character and people as they adapted to the French landscape. It is a fascinating thing to see the water wheel continuing to turn and work for the town of L’Isle sur la Sorgue even today! To come and enjoy the charming atmosphere and beauty of L’Isle sur la Sorgue and all it has to offer, check out our tours below. La Belle Vie Tour A taste of France Tour We hope to see you there! À la prochaine !

Written by Hannah Noye Maud Philippe-Bert is one of our fantastic on-site travel guides running the France Travel Solutions tours in France. Maud herself is extremely worldly and a seasoned traveler. Born and raised in Lyon, Maud studied for 1 year in North Carolina USA, before returning to France. She studied attained her Masters of International Law in Paris before going on to get a journalism qualification and working as a journalist for 10 years. Maud decided she needed a change and spent two years traveling and living in many different countries, then settling back into her home town of Lyon where she has been working as a tour guide for the past 9 years. I interviewed Maud to know more about her experience and skills as a travel guide and the sorts of things that travelers can look forward to on her tours – read on to meet the lovely Maud! Hi Maud! How long have you worked in the Tourism Industry? After my travels I moved to the tourism business, so I started on the fields with Backroads, an American company, who do active travel. I was a guide for trips in France; I did a lot in Provence, Burgundy and the Loire Valley. It was biking, so we were biking a lot during the day and tasting wine, so it was quite cool but after two seasons I decided that I wanted to do something different; I like to do very different stuff! I moved to another American country called Grand Circle Travel. The French headquarters are in Lyon. I was Program services manager, so I was in charge of all the French trips and guides working in France, so I was hiring them, training them, putting them on the field, and I did some production for the trips too. I was finding new places to go like restaurants, and new activities. I also went to other territories like South Africa and Iceland, to do some quality control. After 2 years I left again, and I started my own business. I started Kontrol Freak which is the company that I have now. I’m doing a lot of guiding on the field again, and I’m working with France Travel Solutions and some other companies for like cultural trips. I am also doing travel design and and I’ve just started working for a movie school too – its part time and I’m in charge of all the students in the acting area! You have movie directors, you have writers, you have all different kinds of stuff. I’m in charge of the students doing acting and all the teachers coming and all the projects and doing stuff together. I’ve been doing improv theatre, for like 6 years, I’m doing that a lot when I have time, so it’s a busy life, but its cool, I like it! Me: Is your interest in drama and acting something you incorporate into your tours? It’s very useful to do theatre and to do improv because when you’re a guide with a group you always need to talk with a bunch of people. You need to feel comfortable, and actually when you’re guiding you kind of play a role. Of course I’m Maud but in a way its playing a role – its cool and I like it! Lyon, where I live is the town where the movie actually started – two brothers, Les freres Lumiere invented the movie. Lyon is a big town about cinema and about movies and I’m pretty sure there are some tours about cinema but I’ve never done that yet – but it’s a good idea! Me: What part of French culture would you say you most enjoy and want to share with the people that you are guiding? Maud: Definitely food tours – I’m really about French food and French wine. Lyon is in the middle of the wine area in France. We have north the wine of Burgundy, and Burgundy wines are the most expensive wines in the world so we have crazy wines. In the Mâconnais region there is white wine that I really like, much more affordable and really good, and then Beaujolias which is another really interesting wine area around Lyon. I won’t start explaining everything because then I’ll talk about that forever! So you have Beaujolais and then you have Lyon and south of Lyon you have Côtes du Rhône Plus Lyon is well known to be the capital of Gastronomy. We have a very strong gastronomy history and one of the most famous chefs, Paul Bocuse, is from here. We have a lot of very important chefs from Lyon and we have a lot of specialites, so when I’m doing my tours I talk a lot about all the specialities that you can find in France – that’s really what I’m the best at. I really try to talk about good and arts and culture which is what I’m interested in, so I’m talking about all the museums, all that you can do, that is what I’m interested in. Me: What do you do if people have questions you don’t know the answers to? When I don’t know I’m not going to lie –so when I don’t know I just tell them I don’t know. I know the basic stuff they want to know, and I can take care of the history and stuff of course. When I don’t know I work and learn, and very easily you get to know what kind of information they want to have. What size tours do you have experience running? I’ve done all sizes and I like both because very small groups you have more personal and intimate relationships and you can talk about a lot of stuff. With big groups its more about logistics but I’ve done all sizes up to 45. Question: What is your favourite region of France or that you’d like to show your groups? I really like Provence. Provence is great to show tourists, but me, when I go on vacation I like to go to the west because its wilder. It’s hard because Brittany is also beautiful and Paris is amazing of course – its hard to pick one! Me: Is Lyon where the Fête des Lumières happens? Absolutely yeah! It just happened actually, it was in December. At the beginning we were just putting some little lights on our windows and everyone did it. When I was a child every family was going out just to walk in the streets to have a look at the lights and then we would go home and that’s it. Now its like big stuff – people are coming from everywhere in the world, and I think its great for tourism. Is there anything else you’d like to add about how you specifically run your tours? I’m really organised but I sometimes work with companies that are too perfectly prepared and it lacks some room for improvisation. You know, when you travel you don’t really know what’s gonna happen because it’s part of the experience. I’m always very organised when I do a trip; I know where I’m going, I’m calling the places before because I want to know that the reservation is good, because when you do those things you know it’s going to be smooth. at the same time I try to add a bit of my personality, and I try to have some bits not prepared, even if it makes it a little harder to organise its more fun. It needs to be an adventure. I love adventures, I love to not know what’s going to happen so that’s my way of working. It’s a little bit of improv but a lot of organisation! Maud will be taking some our tours later this year. The website for her business KontrolFreak is available at the following link : https://www.kntrlfrk.com/our-experience-for-your-business You can see information about Maud and our other guides on our ‘Meet the Guide’s’ page on the France Travel Solutions website at this link: https://www.francetravelsolutions.com/meet-our-local-guides If you have any further questions or want to book yourself in for a tour with Maud, please get in touch through our website or social media. Have a fabulous week!