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Few cities can be commended for their ability to awe their audiences as much as Paris. Famously regarded worldwide as the city of love, lights, and opportunity, Paris is a hub for tourists from all over. However, France's popularity cannot be solely attributed to its capital city. Spanning snowy mountains, lavender fields, ancient cities, and sleepy seaside villages, France truly does offer incredible experiences for travellers no matter their passions: sport, art, history, music, food, wine, or something else! Every part of France offers something unique. Thus, it comes as little surprise that France attracts 85 million visitors per year and tops the charts as the most travelled-to country in the world. Can you guess which French cities and regions attract the most tourists? Here's a hint: look at the images below! Here are France's five top tourist destinations: Paris French Riviera Provence Loire Valley French Alps Did you guess them right? Leave a comment on our social media post about which region you'd most love to visit (or have visited!). As mentioned, France is an incredibly diverse nation whose rich and varied culture can be observed in its different regions. Each area offers its own special cuisine, attractions, exhibitions, museums, art, history, music and dance. One can travel the length of France and the many distinct landscapes can give the impression of travelling through several continents! Just observe the stark difference between the sceneries below (all are found in France!). One of the primary reasons that tourists flock to France - which you may have already guessed - is the sheer beauty of the country's landscape. France is home to 49 UNESCO World Heritage sites including medieval towns and fortresses, castles, religious buildings, and other natural landscapes. In comparison, Australia is home to 20 UNESCO sites. France's UNESCO sites are closely tied to its rich and extensive history. Many symbolic buildings have a significant place in France's history and have since been recognised as places of cultural preservation and protection. For example, Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO site off the coast of northwest France, built as a church in the eighth century. To this day, it remains a destination for pilgrims and travellers. Mont Saint-Michel, France, UNESCO site French historic monuments are incredibly popular for the immersive cultural experience they offer visitors. Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris is the city's largest park and cemetery. Many tourists flock here to see the resting place of some of the world's most famous and respected historical figures. The gravestones of author Oscar Wilde and musician Jim Morrison lie here. Other historical sites that are popular among French-visiting tourists are: N î mes Arena (home to the traditional Roman games) WWII D-Day landing beaches in Normandy Paris catacombs Strasbourg Cathedral Lascaux Caves How many of these places have you visited? Leave a comment below! The stunning Gothic Cathedral of Strasbourg Alongside its cultural and historical sites, France's centrality as a travel connector with the rest of Europe makes it an advantageous tourist destination. The 'hexagon' is nestled snugly among other European tourist hotspots: Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, and of course, the United Kingdom. France is extremely well-connected, not only by border proximity but also through its ample transport options like flights, trains, and buses. If it has been your life-long dream to experience the rich French culture, lifestyle, and scenery mentioned above, our Jewels of the North tour may be right for you! Departing in April, May, and September of 2025, this tour encourages our travellers to delve into France’s northern historical and culinary heritage. This trip features unforgettable destinations like Mont Saint-Michel , the gardens of Giverny , and Amiens . At France Travel Solutions, we aim to show you only the best of France. Our small-group tours of France are authentic, memorable, and completely hassle-free. We do the work to ensure your travel experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If this post has sparked your interest in voyaging to France, take the next step and contact us today! We offer a variety of tours ; simply let us know what you want your French travel experience to look like and we'll match you to one of our five specially designed tours. Or read about them for yourself here . We can't wait to hear from you.

While Paris is known as the city of lights, Lyon steals the spotlight for a few days during December each year, drawing thousands of tourists as it boasts incredible light displays across the city center for its Festival of Lights, or Fête des Lumières as it is affectionately known amongst the locals. From 4 days in December each year, Lyon comes alive with incredible exhibitions of light, sound and colour. It's a tradition that has been carried through decades in the famous south-eastern French city. Light displays at Place de Terreaux, Lyon. Credit: Citygame.com The festival began in 1852 when the inauguration of the Virgin Mary statue on Lyon's Fourvière Basilica was postponed to early December due to the flooding of its sculptor's workshop, Joseph-Hugues Fabisch, on September 8th that year. On the day of the inauguration, December 8th, heavy rainfall threatened the scheduled celebrations and illuminations that followed, but as evening came the skies cleared. The locals placed small lanterns ( lumignons) outside their homes and on their window sills and the ‘Fête des Illuminations’ was born! In 1999, the name was changed to Fête des Lumières and the event was regarded officially as a festival! It continues in full stride today. The statue of Virgin Mary atop the Lyon Basilica. Credit: Eymardian Places One unmissable element of the Festival of Lights is the Montée aux flambeaux procession, where lanterns are carried uphill to the basilica. It begins at the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral square around 6.30pm on December 8th each year. Other unforgettable destinations during the light festival include the Place des Terreaux (pictured bottom right), Place des Célestins, Place des Jacobins, Grand Hôtel-Dieu and Cathedral Saint-Jean (where the procession begins). While the details of this year's festival are yet to be released, each year usually has one special theme or display as the centrepiece. In 2019, the festival had grand exhibitions of ocean-themed illuminations with whales, jellyfish and all other kinds of marine creatures lining the streets! Check out some of the incredible displays in recent years by clicking on the video below. With France Travel Solutions's recent unveiling of the destinations on the French Winter Christmas Delights  tour, you too could explore the wonder and magic of the beautiful Lyon with your loved one next festive season. Lyon is the first destination on the French Winter Christmas Delights  tour, and you'll get a full two days to relish everything that the city has to offer. From Lyon's amazing gastronomy and local wines from the Rhône region, to embracing the charm of a traditional French bouchon restaurant, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Lyon. If you love the sound of wandering through Lyon's brightly lit streets or simply observing from a distance with a glass of wine in hand, you'll love everything else that the French Winter Christmas Delights  tour offers. Click the link to see the full itinerary here . Winter is not your preferred travel season? No problem! France Travel Solutions has a variety of specialised tours to suit your needs. Click the link here to see the list of our other tours that run through the warmer months! Don't hesitate to get in contact with Maud if you have any questions or want more information on our services here at France Travel Solutions. Until then, happy traveling!

The French are renowned for making their approach to beauty, elegance, and classiness seem effortless.  Much like the popular perfumes and products they produce, France’s many sweeping flower fields have that particular je ne sais quoi.   France’s numerous flower regions attract tourists from across the world to experience the blissful calm of walking the flower rows, breathing the fresh air, and allowing their eyes to follow the rolling landscape of bold, bright colours. Lavender fields in Provence Perhaps the flower region that best encapsulates the essence of France’s natural beauty is the lavender fields of Provence. These electric purple flower fields famously light up the front of postcards, magnets, and other souvenir items. Provence’s fields are home to many farms that harvest lavender for perfume, soap, and essential oil, among other products. Lavender even makes its way into the food! Some Provencal specialties include lavender honey, cheese, and ice cream. To fully celebrate and appreciate the beautiful Provencal flowers, the region hosts several flower festivals each year. Ferrassieres and Lavandissima fall on the first Sunday and the second Saturday of July respectively. And the dazzling display of lavenders aren't the only flower that flourish in Provence - so do sunflowers. From late June to end of July each year, an incredibly display of beautiful yellow sunflowers can also be seen in the region and all over france. Sunflowers in Provence in late June France Travel Solution's La Belle Vie Tour 2025 will offer guests the opportunity to venture through Provence's beautiful lavender fields and experience the rich cuisine and culture of its beautiful region. Another breathtaking display of French flora can be found in the garden of Claude Monet in Giverny, where he lived until his death in 1926. The garden features 66 different species of plants and flowers and is truly a sight to behold. Monet's garden was a great source of inspiration for him as an artist, and the water lilies found in his ponds featured in more than 250 of his paintings. In fact, he was so adamant on the garden looking spectacular that he sent a gardener out every morning to polish his lily pads! This ensured his paintings were as accurate - and beautiful - as possible. Today, Monet's Garden attracts over 500, 000 tourists each year and some people have even witnessed the cleaning of the lily pads for themselves! In Jewels of the North Tour 2025 you have the chance to visit the gardens for yourself. Take a relaxing stroll around the historical site of Claude Monet's house and studio and see a range of his stunning works. Another wonderful garden you could explore on your France Travel Solutions small-group tour is the neo-futuristic Garden of Étretat, which lies on the Alabaster Coast in Normandy. Les Jardins d'Étretat, as they are called in French, surround a villa that used to belong to the late Parisian actress Madame Thébault in the early 20th century. The gardens exhibit authentic displays of flora and fauna and their intersection with modern and futuristic works of art. For example, take a look below at the array of sculpture-like faces that have been embedded into the shrubbery. Neo-futuristic artworks at the Étretat Gardens Another region where art and nature have combined to provide picturesque displays of flowers and plants is the Loire Valley, situated just north-west of Paris. The Loire Valley is home to over 300 castles, each having distinct gardens with exquisite flowers, landscaping styles, fountains, and much more. Three of the most impressive gardens are found in the castles C henonceau, Chambord, and Amboise . It is difficult to describe the sheer expanse and wander of these gardens so take a look at the images below. They appear in the order that they have been mentioned above. The natural beauty of several gardens mentioned above has provided a creative outlet for numerous artists across France, and these flora spaces are not exceptions. France is a modern hub for artists across many disciplines and many of France's gardens perfectly embody the sense of beauty and grace that artists aim to replicate in their works. France's flower regions and exquisite gardens have consistently remained a core part of France's identity as an exceptionally diverse, yet beautiful country. If you're interested in seeing Provence's lavender fields, Monet's Garden, the Étretat Gardens, or the beautiful castle gardens of the Loire Valley, our tours La Belle Vie and Jewels of the North are perfect for you. With trips departing throughout 2025, we provide multiple dates to accommodate the needs and wants of all travellers. France Travel Solutions' small group tours  make the most of these wonderful regions, and offer guests the opportunity to visit these tranquil spaces under the guidance of our French director Maud. The expertise and local insider knowledge that Maud possesses are sure to make your trip one of a kind. If you have any questions about our tours or want further information, you can contact us here .

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 in 2023. 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!

Imagine experiencing the best Christmas market where even Père Noël shops himself before crawling down chimneys all over the world to leave presents! Something I learned recently is that French children leave their shoes around the fire to be filled with toys and treats. I suppose this isn’t too different from our tradition of using a stocking to fill with toys; after all, they are both things you put on your feet. Legend has it, back before the washer/dryer machine was invented people would hang their stockings or leave their shoes by the fireplace to dry. Before toys, Santa was said to throw gold coins down the fireplace for nice children, and they would land in the stockings or shoes, creating the custom of leaving them out for gifts that we practice today. This week we are going outside into French society, the streets bustling with Christmas cheer! It's high time we mingle merrily with others seeking Festive French cheer, and the best place to do this is at one of France’s beautiful and famous Christmas Markets. Markets like these can be found all throughout France at the festive time of year, but the most well known is The Strasbourg Christmas markets, also known as the "Christkindelsmärik" in the native Alsatian language. The Strasbourg Christmas markets are the oldest in France, dating back to the 16th century. While the market has things you will find at any Christmas market across France, it boasts a unique feel of German/French influence. Strasbourg, now under the rule of France was under German rule until after World War 1, so a lot of the local architecture, customs, and foods are a blend of the two cultures, which can be summed up under the term 'Alsatian.' The markets are set in the Old Town part of the city, its dark wood market stalls sprinkled with snow and the whole place decorated with twinkling lights and Christmas trinkets. It is clear the enduring spirit of the market continues untouched by time – the whole place is the very picture of picturesque, old-timey beauty and cosiness. Imagine strolling through the markets, enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season, rugged up in scarves and jumpers. Carolers and live Christmas music echo cheerfully in the night, and the smells of traditional Alsatian Christmas treats entice you. Of course there are the normal offerings, including Vin Chaud, cheese and so on, but Strasbourg has a whole host of traditional foods that won’t be found outside of the region. Flammekueche, or tart tarte flambée is something of an Alsatian pizza, consisting of a thinly rolled dough base, and a thin layer of crème fraiche, onions and bacon. There is also Choucroute, a dish of sausage, sauerkraut and potato, quiche Lorraine, a classic dish native to the nearby town of Lorraine, Bredele the classic Alsatian Christmas cookie, and much more. Pictured above: Tarte flambée To add further to the delightful foods and atmosphere are the market stalls offering artisanal products made by local craftsmen and women, including Christmas decorations, toys, and other handmade gifts. A souvenir that far exceeds an I HEART PARIS T-shirt! Some extra thrills and activities include a visit with classic jolly Saint Nick who of course takes a seat each year at the market, ice-skating, and taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. I know I keep saying to imagine – but really imagine the wonder of experiencing the Christmas lights, music, and food while being transported by a horse! It sounds like something out of a dream. While Strasbourg is undoubtedly known for being the BEST Christmas Market - the best overall Christmas decorations are seen in Colmar, another city in the Alsace region with a notable Christmas Market. The Germanic architecture coupled with the charming decorations makes the town seem to leap from the pages of a fairytale. Lyon, yet another French city, further south, is known for its Fete des lumieres, a beautiful magical light show installed throughout the city that dates back to the 8th of December 1852 when residents celebrated the erection of a statue of the virgin Mary by placing coloured candles in their window frame. Today, ordinary fixtures of the city such as signs and streetlights are given new life through movement and light unlike that of their regular function. Spaces are transformed with light pieces - in 2019 floating sea creatures and seaweed lit from within created an underwater atmosphere at the Fete. Most memorable perhaps are the large scale moving light projections on the tall renaissance buildings of the city that transform the landscape into that of a beautiful, surreal dream. The festival runs for 4 days every year from the 8th to the 11th of December. Are you thinking longingly now of the warming festival and market traditions and foods of France? Perhaps you are wishing you were strolling the markets, hot beverage in hand, inspecting hand crafted ornaments and Alsatian delicacies, or enjoying the light shows of Lyon as they dance and scatter. If this is you, then you are in luck. France Travel Solutions are happy to take expressions of interest for those wanting a White Christmas in France next year. Whatever you seek, FTS can help you with crafting the perfect itinerary, down to the details – where to stay, what to eat, where to visit. If you want a voyage dedicated to visiting the most iconic Christmas experiences, markets, and festivals, or simply wish to experience France in its cold winter season, then please let us know. It is our wish to create the experiences that will keep you excited and looking forward to your French adventures in 2025 and beyond. Update: As of January 2024 we are pleased to announce our new French Christmas Winter Delights tour, packed full of Festive French experiences like those included in this blog post and many more! Find out more by clicking here . On se voit là-bas!

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 , 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 !

Welcome! As Christmas draws nearer and the days get hotter, I find my mind wandering to the Christmas season I experienced 4 years ago in Paris. I think I speak for many of us Australians when I say that while I love our traditions, there has always been a part of me that has yearned for the Christmases in movies! Long scarves, snowmen , snowball fights, blazing fireplaces, and cold weather in which it is rational to drink hot chocolate! My own tradition has always been to force down the hot beverage despite the sweltering heat. Christmas in Paris gave me the chance to experience the season in the way I’d always dreamed, and introduced me to a number of specifically French traditions I’d never heard of. To be perfectly honest, most of these revelations were food based – food and drink typical of the French Christmas season. Did you know that in France they have their big Christmas Feast on Christmas Eve night? Christmas day is reserved more for opening presents and relaxing than being the star of the show. Santa Claus, or Père Noël as he is known, still visits on the same night for Australian and French kids alike though! If you’re planning to head to France this Christmas, or are simply curious to know what’s on the menu, then stick around! GALERIE LAFAYETTES GOURMET CHRISTMAS TREATS Yesterday, we made a post about the festive experiences and famous decorations at the beautiful Galerie Lafayette in Paris. Anyone familiar with the Galerie will know its name to be synonymous with high-end, and its gourmet food department is no different. They recently released their Christmas line, a series of decadent chocolates and pastries from top chefs and chocolatiers such as Philippe Conticini and Jean-Paul Hévin. Every facet of these creations have clearly been created with the utmost care and attention to detail. In everything from the outer design to the flavors these pastries evoke the French Noel, and indeed hint at the other foods on our list! VIN CHAUD When I first tried Vin Chaud at the local Christmas market it blew my mind. I told all my friends about this new French drink I had discovered, feeling very worldly indeed, until I was humbled by one who explained to me that vin chaud was basically the French term for mulled wine. It translated to ‘hot wine,’ so perhaps I should have figured that out myself! Regardless, this hot, sweet, and spiced red wine based beverage is everywhere during French winter. Though the French are more likely to opt for Champagne on actual Christmas day, this drink is undeniably Christmassy. The Galerie lafayette treat named 'Bûche Foie Gras façon “vin chaud”,' by Dubernet contains the flavors of the iconic drink, a nod to its Christmas significance. FOIE GRAS TERRINE Foie Gras, duck liver, is often served before the main meal as part of the Apéro. Apéro is a light serving of snacks and drinks prior to the first course/main meal of the evening, and is a year round tradition in France. On Christmas Eve however it is particularly common to have Foie Gras with bread, or even on French gingerbread! It's commonly served at Christmas time with a fig or onion jam. DINDE (TURKEY) The turkey is a crucial part of French Christmas dinner. This dish is probably more familiar as something that we would also eat here in Australia. The French way is to stuff the Turkey with chestnuts, and then have typical sides such as roast potatoes and green beans, as well as more chestnuts. The French have quite the penchant towards working fragrant nuts into their meals and desserts, particularly almonds and pistachios, a theme recurring in the Galerie Lafayette Christmas deserts as seen before. PLATEAU DE FROMAGE (CHEESE COURSE) After the main course, it is typical to have an assortment of cheeses with either bread or a simple salad, before the dessert is served. This is actually done year round in many French households, but is certainly not neglected on Christmas! BUCHE DE NOEL A lot of the Galerie’s treats are designed after the Buche de Noel, otherwise known as the ‘Yule Log.’ We’ve probably all heard of this dessert, but in France this cake is a MUST HAVE. Its' name and appearance derive from the Germanic/Pagan tradition of burning a real yule log to invoke good luck and protection in the new year. Sources seem to differ regarding the date of this burning, whether it was Christmas Eve or the Winter Solstice, but today the chocolaty, spongey Yule log is enjoyed after Christmas Eve dinner. So there you have it! The Christmas foods of France - or at least those that defy our Australian way of celebrating Christmas. There are certainly more bits and pieces that pertain to the Christmas season of course - you cannot capture a whole countries festive spirit in 800 words. Let's take ourselves briefly through the Christmas Eve dinner, starting with the Apéro of champagne and foie gras with bread. Then would be served l’entrée, consisting of scallops, soup, or other hors d'oeuvre type dishes. The Foie gras Terrine could alternatively also be served at l’entrée if other snacks were chosen for Apéro . Next, is the main, featuring the turkey and traditional sides. This is followed by the third course, cheese and salad, before finally the dessert is served; the yule log is the star of course but may also be accompanied by truffles, cookies, or fruit. It's quite different to the typical hot Christmas day lunch I'm used to with ham, prawns and pavlova, and the whole family adorned with the small paper crowns we got from our Christmas crackers. That's what makes the experience of another type of Christmas all the more fun, and one I would recommend to everyone. It is such a delight to see the ways we all celebrate Christmas internationally! I can confirm without any doubt, that regardless of the differing traditions and foods, both the French Noel and Australian Christmas embody the festive spirit - and that's what it's all about!

When you picture France, the first thing that pops into your head is likely the elegant metal monument that dominates the skyline of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. While the structure is now infamous on a global scale, the story of how the Eiffel Tower came into existence is much more complicated than that. Its construction was highly contested at several periods in time and it was almost not completed. Now the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of France and welcomes millions of visitors each year. In October of 1886, French construction designer Gustave Eiffel was appointed an honorary citizen of the United States for his contribution to the Statue of Liberty which was gifted to the USA by France as a champion of freedom following the American Revolution. Eiffel had been responsible for designing the internal framework of the Statue of Liberty, which was regarded as highly advanced engineering at the time for its durability to withstand extreme weather events. The American authorities were confident it would stand for hundreds of years. Following Eiffel's incredible success off the back of designing a monument for the USA, his fellow French colleagues urged him to design a monument for the Paris World's Exhibition in 1889. Eiffel did not believe that the design of a temporary moment for the exhibition was worthwhile, and felt that an underground metro would more beneficially serve the people of Paris. He believed that the metro was modern and would ease the transportation difficulties that were faced by many Parisian citizens. The Paris World's Fair 1889 was to exhibit the great industrial advancements of iron and steel structures at that time. Eiffel decided to scrap the metro idea and worked towards designing a monument for the city of Paris. He proposed a temporary 300-metre-tall metal structure that would become the Eiffel Tower. Early-stage prototypes of the tower were regarded as ugly by Eiffel's colleagues, and the tower was speculated to be 'a wart on the face of Paris'. However, Eiffel's intelligence, attention to detail, and likable personality saw him persevere to complete the tower's design despite these criticisms. During the presentation of his finalised prototype when Parisian authorities raised their concerns that the tower would scare visitors away from Paris, Eiffel took this as an opportunity to highlight what France could gain from the tower. He proposed that the contrary would occur, that people would flock from all over the world to see the incredible statue. Gustave Eiffel claimed that the tower was not simply to be a feature of the country, it was to embody all the France represents. The tower would represent national pride, reclaim independence and stand for the freedom of the French people forever. It was designed especially to withstand strong winds and storms, the curvature of the tower absorbing the wind and channeling it upward. Eiffel's critics were swift to raise concerns that the tower was to be built next to a bed of water, which would increase the difficulty and risks during construction. This did not phase Eiffel, however, as he was actively involved in the design and construction of a bridge over the Bordeaux river 20 years earlier. Eiffel's solution was caissons, a watertight retaining structure that allowed the construction of a stable foundation for the tower to be built on. Gustave Eiffel's design for the A-shaped tower won the competition to be showcased in the Paris World's Exhibition for 1889. He immediately got to work, organising labourers and materials. Despite Eiffel's commitment to the safety and security of his workers - which he had demonstrated at the building of the Bordeaux bridge in 1860 when he rescued a worker from drowning - there were concerns that the caissons were dangerous and working conditions were poor. This led to Eiffel's workers going on strike even before the first level of the tower was completed. Following the worker's strike, the board of Paris refused the completion of the Eiffel Tower. Eiffel's determination and drive once more shone through and he promised the men that he would double their wages when they completed level one of the tower, which he said would take two weeks. Eiffel had an amazing crowd presence and an ability to muster strength and encouragement in his group of workers. From that moment on, Gustave committed to seeing through the completion of the tower's construction, even if he were to be in debt for the rest of his life. The tower was indeed built to completion and its formal inauguration at the 1889 Paris World's Exhibition was an enormous success. From this day, Gustave Eiffel would go down in history as one of the world's greatest construction designers. The Eiffel Tower is comprised of 18038 pieces of metal and 2.5 million bolts. There are 1665 steps to the very top of the tower. Since its opening on March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower has had close to 300 million visitors. It has attracted people from all over the world and represents the charm and beauty of the city in which it stands. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world today. The 2021 movie 'Eiffel' is an incredible depiction of the history of the Eiffel Tower, and features an amazing cast including Emma Mackey and Romain Duris. The Eiffel Tower is now also fitted with the Madame Brasserie restaurant, offering a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in the world-famous monument. There are plenty of options to choose from, including a variety of drink and dessert packages. You could have the opportunity to dine at one of the most exquisite restaurants in the world, overlooking the beautiful city of Paris. If you'd like to see the Eiffel Tower in all its beauty, look no further than France Travel Solutions. French-born Maud Dunne is the founder of France Travel Solutions, and her expertise in tourism and group tours means she is truly qualified to provide you with your dream trip to France. Maud is on a number of tourism boards and has incredible connections with tourism managers all over France. If you've been looking for a sign to book a small-group trip to France with a tour guide who knows the ins and outs of the country, you can learn more by visiting the France Travel Solutions webpage or by registering your interest here . We can't wait to hear from you!

Australian Troops photographed at the Battle of Amiens Lieutenant Colonel George Hulse OAM has lived his life serving the country of Australia as a combat engineer. As a Vietnam War veteran, George became the President of the First Field Squadron Group Association who are also known as the ‘Tunnel Rats’. These were the soldiers who entered into deeply dug underground tunnels and bunkers where they recovered masses of enemy information, ammunition and other materiel vital to the enemy war effort. At that time, these Sappers thought themselves as the first of their kind, but in fact George Hulse and his Association’s historians found out that there were a group of Australian Sappers who did the same thing during World War One. From there the Corps of Royal Australian Engineers investment in preserving the memory of these men has grown immensely, and lead to today’s efforts to establish a friendship Bridge in Amiens, France; the place from where Australian Sappers marked a significant role in Australian military history. George Hulse pictured in the Vietnam War George recounts the story of one day in particular, the 8th of August, 1918 – the Battle of Amiens. At 4:20am in the morning the British, French, and Americans jointly attacked the Germans to great success. On a roll, the armies of course wished to continue their success and push back the Germans farther. The Australian troops were given 4 days to get from Villers-Bretonneux to the town of Harbonnieres, a distance of about 15 kilometres – but these brave men were able to succeed in their task in only 8 eventful, courageous hours. The above map shows the distance travelled by the Sappers within 8 hours - a distance rife with danger and enemy forces The role of a Sapper (a combat engineer) is vastly overlooked and undervalued – they are the first soldiers into a dangerous situation and the last to leave. They facilitate the crossing of dangerous lands, the defusing of difficult situations, and more while under life-threatening circumstances. On this particular day, one group of Sappers led by Lieutenant Ralph Hunt, and including his Body Guard Sapper George Hook, were tasked with building three bridges to cross the Somme river near the town of Cerisy. One of the bridges, codenamed ‘Cherry Bridge,’ which had been assumed to be demolished was in fact still standing, and so the Sappers captured it. Unfortunately above them on Chipilly Spur were a number of Germans unaffected in the morning assault, and they shot down George Hook who despite the best effort of Hunt died of his wounds. The location where the team was supposed to erect ‘Sapper Bridge,’ was thought too dangerous, and as such Hunt left just 6 men to guard Cherry Bridge and pushed forward to find a better spot for his bridges with the rest of the Sappers under his command. At this moment, only 500 metres from the remaining 6 Sappers at Cherry Bridge, loud fighting and gunfire commenced, and 2 of these men, Sapper Arthur Dean and Sapper William Campbell, were sent to investigate. The scene they came upon was that of the London Fusiliers being brutally machine gunned from a German position farther up the hill. Despite being vastly outnumbered these two brave men decided that they had to do something. They penetrated behind the German position and making as much noise as they possibly could, entered the scene. Throwing bombs and doing their best to create the illusion of more soldiers, the two Australian Sappers attacked the German position and it worked! The German officer thought they were surrounded and surrendered, giving the British the chance to quickly take back control of the situation. These two sappers were nominated for the Victoria Cross, surely warranted by their remarkable bravery, but instead only received the Distinguished Conduct Medal. These events were not the only miraculous successes to occur on this day however. The Sappers made their way on to a place called ‘Warfusee.’ There they found a Command Post dug under the ground – the Sappers entered the dugouts. And Viola – there they found 5 senior German officers totally ignorant to the defeat of their men and subsequent advancement of the Australian troops. After making the appropriate capture of these important people, the Sappers continued on the town of Bayonvillers, which was being abandoned in a rush by the Germans who realised the Australians were en route. In their haste they failed to take with them their maps and other documents with critical information about battle strategy and the location of their stores dumps. From here they continued to Harbonnieres where it was taken by the Australian 31st Infantry Battalion. German Troops pictured with the Amiens Gun prior to its capture by the Australian Sappers But the story doesn’t end here. 200 metres onward, in ‘no-man’s land”, there was a massive gun placed on a railway line, too large to be fired on normal terrain. Three Sappers, Lieutenant George Burrows, Sapper Les Strahan and Sapper John Palmer made the dangerous decision to cross no mans land to take the gun, and they did so, all the while being fired at by the Germans. In the fashion of true engineers they managed to start the locomotive, hooking up the gun and disconnecting the carriages, and taking the gun as far from the Germans as possible via the railway track. During that night, the rest of the engineer field company managed to transfer the train all the way back onto the Australian side by taking the railway tracks from the back of the train and then moving them to the front of the train, slowly and surely moving the massive weapon well into Australian held territory. This is now known as the Amiens Gun, and the enormous barrel of the Amiens Gun can be seen at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra today. The names of the three Sappers, Burrows, Strahan and Palmer were written out of history - the books written at that time mention only the 31st Infantry Battalion in the capture of the gun. These Sappers, all mentioned here by name – Dean, Campbell, Burrows, Strahan, and Palmer drifted into obscurity after their heroic feats, none sufficiently celebrated for what they did. How many other Combat Engineers may have contributed to the successes of wars around the world and never received their due? Up until 2022, there was no memorial dedicated to the World War One, Australian Corps of Engineers anywhere in the world. There is now a Bridge of Friendship located in ANZAC Park, Toowong in Brisbane as a monument to those Australian military engineers and a twin bridge to this one will be dedicated on 24 April 2024 located in the City of Amiens in France. These Friendship Bridges proposed by George and his team will, at long last, honor these men and their work. It will also be a celebration of the special relationship between the French people of Amiens and the Australian soldiers. The people of Amiens carry a longstanding sentiment of momentous appreciation for the Australian contribution to the success of the war and their help in saving their city from German capture. The fund for the Amiens Bridge is supported by the Royal Australian Engineers Foundation. If you would like to support the construction of the Amiens Bridge, you can do so at raefoundation.org.au/product/one-time-donation

Situated on the river Deûle, only 16km from France's border with Belgium, Lille is a French hotspot for culture, history and education. As the fourth most populated city in France after Paris, Lyon and Marseille, it is no surprise that Lille is the capital of the Hauts-de-France region and attracts between two and three million tourists annually. Lille is popular student destination, boasting nine prestigious universities in the small city. Its bustling student nightlife, youthful atmosphere and affordable student living attract both domestic and international students from all around the world. There are over 110,000 university students in Lille, making up about 45% of the city's population! The city square, Place du Général de Gaulle, is bursting at the seams with culture and cuisine, featuring an array of cafes, restaurants and trinket shops. The chatter of uni students catching up on their summer break and the distant clink of glasses can be heard as you stroll through the centre square, located in the stunning Vieux Lille area. The early morning sun casts dramatic shadows of the elaborate buildings in the square, such as the La Voix du Nord headquarters, the leading daily newspaper of northern France. If you have the time, I highly suggest taking an early morning stroll down to the square and sitting in a cafe as you watch the slow balk of curious early risers gradually turn to the hustle and bustle of the work day. Cafe L'Abbaye does a magnificent chocolat liégeois which is the perfect drink to accompany a croissant as the sun rises over the walls of the buildings and shines down on the square, seemingly waking up the small city. Like many French cities, Lille is incredibly pedestrian-friendly. Walkable towns are great as I believe it's the best way to explore a new place. Some of my most memorable travel finds have been from strolling the back streets of a town, and Lille is no exception. I spent 8 hours roaming the cobblestone streets and alleys on a lovely sunny Saturday in early November with my Panasonic camera looped around my neck, capturing all the beautiful nuances of the city. A walk through Vieux-Lille led me to the river Deûle, where I stumbled across the Pont Napoléon (Napoleon Bridge). The curious appearance of this bridge led me to research its origins and I discovered that it is the only covered pedestrian walking bridge in France! It was built in 1812 and has had several reconstructions since its erection over 200 years ago. To learn more about this fascinating story, you can click here . Le Pont Napoleon connects the northern and southern sides of the river, creating a convenient crossing point for pedestrians. The riverside walk stretches for kilometers along the river's edge, running all the way into the center ville. In early November, the leaves were a stunning, deep auburn colour as the season changed from autumn to winter. I felt the bite of the crisp morning breeze as I strolled the riverbank, and felt a content warmth as the sun peered through the trees, reducing the chill even if just by a little. The huge orange leaves crunched loudly under my feet and the river gently flowed and trickled alongside me. It felt magical. My time in Lille was short, and so I had little time to indulge in the many attractions that the city has to offer, such as the Lille Citadelle. Lille saw the birth of a citadel between 1667 and 1670, ignited by the marriage of King Louis XIV of France and his cousin Maria Theresa of Spain. A promised dowry that never arrived drove Louis XIV to claim payment through a siege on Lille, a city under Spanish rule. Louis XIV tasked Marquis de Vauban, a renowned architect at the time, with transforming the town into a powerful citadel. The structural success and resulting pressure that was placed on the city of Lille saw the siege last only nine days before the surrender. The beautiful Vauban gardens are a lovely attraction situated next to the Citadelle that are well worth a visit according to locals. To learn more about the story of the Lille Citadelle, read here. Though small in size, Lille has plenty to offer such as the Braderie de Lille, the annual street market that takes place on the first weekend of September. It dates back to the 12th century and welcomes nearly three million visitors each year. The Braderie de Lille is one of the largest gatherings in France and the largest flea market in Europe. It hosts musicians, a fun fair and even a half-marathon running event. It is even estimated that the cumulative length of market aisles stretches for 100km! Lille is the birth town of former French president Charles de Gaulle, an extremely notable figure in French history books and society. His maison natale (birth place) attracts many visitors to the city, offering guided tours and temporary exhibitions. You can read more about Charles de Gaulle's upbringing and young life, along with information about the tour here . Lille is no doubt home to some of the richest cultural and historical experiences that France has to offer. Its quiet, humble atmosphere paired with the seasonal buzz of excitement from tourists and students make it an enjoyable, relaxing place to visit. To learn more about Lille or tours of the region, contact France Travel Solutions by visiting our webpage or sending us an expression of interest .

By Hannah Noye When it comes to luxurious shopping experiences, the Galeries Lafayette in Paris stand out as an iconic destination that offers so much more than just retail therapy. The stunning architecture, designer products, and unique experiences all lend themselves to the enriching and memorable experience of the Galeries. From its almost art exhibition-like ambience to its breathtaking rooftop restaurant, the Galeries Lafayette embody a world of timeless elegance and sophistication. 1. A Visual Feast Beyond Shopping: Upon entering the Galeries Lafayette visitors are greeted with the breathtaking sight of the famed glass dome and intricate stained glass windows. The vast space is made up of levels and levels of fashion, beauty, café’s, etc all circling around an immense gap from the ground floor all the way up to the dome, allowing shoppers on every level to take in the stores beauty from a number of different angles. At Christmas time this space will also house the traditional Galeries Lafayette floating tree, which attracts tourists from all over the world. 2. Creatures – A culinary Journey in the sky: Located at the top of the center, the restaurant ‘Creatures’ offers a dining experience like no other. After a day of arguably the most beautiful shopping experience of your life, there is no better place to rest your feet as you indulge in delectable cuisine and take in panoramic views of Paris’ iconic landmarks. This rooftop restaurant not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides an opportunity to soak in the breathtaking beauty of Paris from a unique vantage point. 3. The Theatre of Fashion – The store offers an extensive and highly curated selection that caters to every taste and style, and is consistently up to date with the newest offerings from world-class designers. The many clothes sections spanning over the stores many levels are beautifully presented, turning each visit into a visual spectacle – the shopping experience has never had such drama and excitement. Not to mention, the Galeries Lafayette boasts the largest shoe department in Europe – need I say more? It’s a fashion paradise! 4. Exclusive Privileges and Unique Offerings – for those seeking an even more exceptional visit, the Galeries offers other exclusive perks. Take part in an exclusive private heritage tour of the Galeries before weekend opening hours to immerse yourselves in the rich history of the store and its architectural significance. Additionally, by spending 650 euros or more you will be granted access to a special room with VIP amenities, including a taxi ride back to your accommodation and the personal delivery of your purchases to your residence in Paris. 5. Relax or Enrich! The Galeries further transcend traditional shopping by catering to the shoppers desire to learn or relax in style! Cooking classes for both adults and children encourage visitors to embrace the culinary arts and learn about French cooking culture with wonderful native chefs. The presence of a massage centre also provides relaxation amidst the excitement of shopping. Additionally, exclusive fashion shows held on Thursdays and Fridays provide insights into the latest trends and designs and offer a more intimate demonstration of the fashion offerings of the Galeries for those who are overwhelmed by the sheer size of the store and would rather choose from a smaller collection of curated favourites. Note – these shows are often booked out in advance, so its definitely something to organise ahead of time! 6. VAT Tax Refund – For international tourists, the Galeries Lafayette make shopping even more appealing by offering an immediate 12% VAT tax refund on purchases exceeding 100 euros! The Galeries Lafayette are a celebration of fashion, art, and luxury. Anyone with a lust for the romance of Parisian food and culture will easily be able to spend an entire day taking in the unforgettable journey promised by this remarkable testament to elegance and grandeur. There is something for everyone, and even if you are in Paris for just a short time, it is worth at least popping in to see in person the breathtaking architecture, and the view of Paris from the Galeries roof. In fact, for those looking to visit the Galeries, France Travel Solutions is thrilled to offer you a number of vouchers for rare discounts at the Galeries. To receive your free vouchers, just go to our website at francetravelsolutions.com and fill out the Contact form at the bottom of the page, making sure to write ‘Galeries Lafayette’ into the subject box! And if you have any questions for us, or would like us to organise a bespoke tour for you including a set itinerary (perhaps including the Galeries?) don't hesitate to get in contact with us! You can reach us through our website or through messages on Instagram and Facebook. Until then, Au Revoir!