Blog
In this section, you’ll find all the Oliver’s France posts: regional destinations, travel tips, France-wide activities, language tools, food, and much more. To go directly to regional destinations, click on the Regional tab on the menu, or click on one of the photos in the regional section on the home page. If you have something particular you want to find, there’s a search bar on the right side of the menu. And for a listing of all categories and posts, click HERE.
The Loire Valley: An Updated Guide
A French Garden: The Loire Valley The Loire Valley offers an abundance of reasons to visit. Many people think of the sumptuous châteaux that dot the countryside. Those fabulous structures dwell in a lush landscape once coveted by kings and nobles. It’s more...
Where the Lavender Grows in Provence
Where the Lavender Grows in Provence Each summer, Provence turns purple. Lavender spills across plateaus, rolls over hillsides, edges country roads, and perfumes whole stretches of the countryside. But for travelers, one question is central: Where should you go to...
Packing and Preparing for Your France Trip
Packing and Preparing for Your France Trip You’re going to France! It’ll be great when you get there, but before? Preparing for an international trip can be daunting. Some careful planning ahead of time will save you headaches. Here are some tips for your...
Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dream Destination in Dordogne
Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dream Destination in Dordogne Southwest France contains new wonders you might not know about. One of these is the idyllic town of Sarlat-la-Canéda (or just Sarlat), one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and France. In my...
Le Carnaval and Mardi Gras in France
Le Carnaval and Mardi Gras in France When February arrives in France, some folks think of Mardi Gras. Or Carnaval…What’s the difference? What is their significance, and where does this take place? Read further for more insight! What is Carnaval? ...
Is Paris Calling You This Year?
Is Paris Calling You This Year? You have a trip to Paris on your schedule this year… Or maybe you’re only dreaming about it. This may be your year to go! If so, this exciting news is for you! I have just published the 2026 Edition of Magical Paris: Over...
Grasse, Perfume Landmark of France
Grasse, Perfume Landmark of France Just a short distance from Cannes on the Riviera lies the town of Grasse. Grasse has been known as a perfume capital since the 19th century. In fact, as you stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, you might just...
France Travel Dreams for a New Year
What fantastic trips will you dream up for 2026? Happy New Year! Whatever 2025 was like for you, each new year presents fresh opportunities to plan and take a trip to France. What are your France travel dreams? Maybe one of these? A tour of...
What is The French Réveillon?
What is The French Réveillon? What is the French Réveillon? It is a term that can refer to either Christmas Eve (Réveillon de Noël) or New Year’s Eve. The word itself means awakening, and refers to the practice of staying awake past midnight. (Se revéiller...
Enjoying Winter in France
Winter in France Visiting France during the winter months has more to offer than you might think. It's true that most of France’s millions of visitors per year come between May and October. But it may surprise you how memorable and exciting a winter visit can...
Road Trips: A New Way to Travel Through France
Road Trips in France So, you've been to Paris and maybe to Nice. Although they are fabulous places, there is unbelievably more to see and do all across France. You can take trains, which are a wonderful way to go. But what about a ROAD TRIP, when you're the boss and...
French Etiquette for Travelers
French Etiquette for Travelers Etiquette is culturally important to the French. It’s ingrained in their upbringing and daily lives. This is, of course, true for most cultures. But when you travel to France, it’s helpful to know these things, like a secret code to get...
