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?  ...

Recent Posts

Avignon: The 7 Best Things to Do

Avignon: The 7 Best Things to Do

No trip to Provence would be complete without a visit to Avignon, often called the gateway to Provence. In fact, you will likely need to take a train from Paris to Avignon to get there before moving on to any other...

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Walking Tours in France

Walking Tours in France

Anytime you go to France, you’re likely to be on your feet. Taking comfortable shoes is the first advice you’ll get, and good advice it is. Walking tours take your feet and experiences to the next level, as you observe...

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News from Oliver’s France

News from Oliver’s France

Fresh Ideas for France Travel from Oliver's France I hope your summer is going even better than you expected, with the Covid reality still with us. Some travel has resumed, but much international travel hasn’t yet. We...

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Versailles: Château and City

Versailles: Château and City

When people hear the name Versailles, they often think of the opulent château. The Château de Versailles is a must-see on many a tourist’s list! This was where King Louis XIV moved when he wanted to escape to the...

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Travel and Language Resources

Hit the Road: Free eBook!

There’s something special about seeing France by car. The freedom to set your pace, to see the out-of-the way places. Here are 5 Made-for-You road trips in 5 of the loveliest regions of France. Free 34-page eBook. Just rent a car and go!

Magical Paris: Over 100 Things to Do Across Paris

Magical Paris: The places you most want to see, as well as places you’ve never read about anywhere. Magical Paris gives both, not just tourist hubs, but ALL of Paris. All across Paris…discover the magic.

A French Garden: The Loire Valley

Here’s a place you might see only in your dreams, but it’s just an hour south of Paris … the Loire Valley. This is your guide for this enchanted place, with all you’ll need for an unforgettable trip.

Real French for Travelers Online Course

Learn travel French online…a great way to prepare for your trip to France! Whether you’re starting from zero or needing a good review, this course fits your schedule. It’s yours to keep. Click the image to learn more.

FREE French Mini-Course: Polite Words and Expressions

Get ready for your trip to France with this FREE online mini-course covering polite words and expressions. Video lessons will tell you how, what, and when to say polite expressions and greetings in France.

Real French for Travelers: The Book

When you go to France, why grab your phrasebook when you can learn REAL French? Simple chapters will take you from zero to past tense in clear lessons. Tons of travel vocabulary, too! (Also in online course)

Regions of France

Everything under the sun . . .

More things to do in France and travel tips, too! 

Along with travel tips that will help you have a great trip, there are many activities you can do in France. (Hiking, biking, boating, cooking classes, language study vacations . . . ) Have a look at this Alphabetical List (click the button) to find what you’re looking for!