"Home Exchange in France: Real Experiences & Secrets to Affordable Travel" – Ever wish you could explore France without breaking the bank? In this episode of Join Us in France , host Annie Sargent talks with Mali Arnstad, a home exchange expert with 14 years of experience swapping homes across France and beyond. Together, they reveal how you can travel for free—yes, free —by staying in local homes, borrowing cars, and even pet-sitting. This isn't just theory; it's packed with real stories, p...
Dec 07, 2025•1 hr 2 min
"Vegetarian in Paris with Amber Haggerty" is your ultimate guide to eating meat-free in the City of Light—and trust me, it's easier (and tastier) than you think! In this episode of Join Us in France , host Annie Sargent chats with Amber Haggerty, the expert behind The Vegetarian in Paris blog, about where to find the best plant-based meals in Paris. Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian, a curious foodie, or just looking to explore meat-free options, Amber shares her insider tips for navigating P...
Nov 30, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 574
"Renting a Boat on the Canal du Midi with Bobbi Heath" is your ultimate guide to one of France's most magical slow travel experiences. In this episode, host Annie Sargent chats with Bobbi Heath, a passionate traveler and boating enthusiast, about her week-long adventure renting a boat on the Canal du Midi. If you've ever dreamed of cruising through France's picturesque countryside, sipping wine, and exploring historic villages—all without needing a boating license—this conversation is packed wit...
Nov 23, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 573
Join Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin as they dive deep into the tragic and brilliant life of Vincent van Gogh. This episode isn't just about his iconic paintings—it's about the man behind the masterpieces. Elyse, with her deep knowledge of art history and her gift for storytelling, guides us through Van Gogh's tumultuous journey. From his early struggles in the Netherlands to his transformative years in France, we explore how his experiences shaped his art—and how his art, in turn, shaped the worl...
Nov 16, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 572
In this week's episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, Annie Sargent talks with immigration lawyer Daniel Tostado and guests Brenna and Jeff, a couple exploring how to make their dream of moving to France a reality. Listen to this episode ad-free They dive deep into what the Talent Visa France really is, how it differs from the Freelance Visa for France, and which one makes the most sense depending on your work situation. Daniel explains the legal side in plain language — who qualifies,...
Nov 09, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 571
In Versailles with Kids and the Grand Ball: A Magical Family Adventure, host Annie Sargent talks with Katie Danger, an American mom who has lived in Versailles for more than a decade. Katie knows the palace and its surroundings inside and out — and she shares all her best tips for families who want to enjoy this iconic destination without the stress. Listen to this episode ad-free Together, Annie and Katie explore how to make Versailles fun and manageable with children. They talk about stroller-...
Nov 02, 2025•57 min•Ep. 570
In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with Abigail Carter, a writer and YouTube creator who made a huge life change. Abigail lost her husband in the 9/11 attacks. She raised her two young children in Seattle. Then the pandemic hit and forced her to rethink everything. She realized she wanted a new chapter. Listen to this episode ad-free Abigail began watching videos of people renovating châteaux in France. The idea stuck. She loves travel. She loves ho...
Oct 26, 2025•56 min•Ep. 569
In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , titled "Sarah Bernhardt with Elyse Rivin," host Annie Sargent explores the fascinating life of France's most famous actress. Sarah Bernhardt wasn't just a performer — she was a global icon, an artist, and one of the most daring women of her time. Listen to this episode ad-free Born in Paris in 1844, Sarah rose from humble beginnings to dominate the French stage and the world's imagination. She acted at the Comédie-Française, starred in pr...
Oct 19, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 568
Discovering Modern Paris: Tips and Surprises What's it like to experience modern Paris travel today? Is the City of Light still magical—or has it changed too much? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with Brian Revel, a traveler from Canada who shares practical and often surprising insights about exploring Paris in 2025. Together, they discuss how Paris feels cleaner, friendlier, and more accessible than ever. Whether you're visiting for the first ti...
Oct 12, 2025•58 min•Ep. 567
In A Multi-Generational Christmas Adventure: France by Road and by Barge , host Annie Sargent chats with guest Heather Addison to talk about a unique family trip across France. Heather brought three generations together for the holidays, and the result was both memorable and inspiring. Listen to this episode ad-free They started with a road trip through France. Renting a van gave the family flexibility and comfort, especially with kids and grandparents along. Annie and Heather discuss the pros a...
Oct 05, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 566
Planning to explore France without renting a car? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with solo traveler Helena Fedorec about her practical, budget-friendly journey across France. The episode, Discover France by Train and Bus: A Solo Traveler's Budget Guide , is packed with tips for anyone eager to see more of France using public transportation. Listen to this episode ad-free Helena shares how she built her itinerary around France's excellent train a...
Sep 28, 2025•57 min•Ep. 565
Exploring Saint-Lizier: Hidden Gem of the French Pyrenees In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , host Annie Sargent and co-host Elyse Rivin take you to the charming village of Saint-Lizier in the Ariège, nestled in the foothills of the French Pyrenees. Saint-Lizier is officially one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France" and offers visitors a rare combination of Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and Pyrenean landscapes. Annie and Elyse walk you through the highlights, fro...
Sep 21, 2025•58 min•Ep. 564
In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, Annie Sargent shares the Bootcamp 2025 Report with guests Janet Boyd, Beth Hall, Mary Piltch, and Jeanne Powanda. Together, they look back on a week in Toulouse and the southwest of France filled with language, history, food, and friendship. Listen to this episode ad-free Bootcamp isn't a packaged tour. It's a flexible way to explore France in the company of fellow Francophiles. Each person chooses what to do each day, but the group also g...
Sep 14, 2025•58 min•Ep. 563
Here's a 300-word iTunes/Podcast Apps summary for Episode 562: What happens when your carefully planned vacation in France takes an unexpected turn? In Unexpected France: History, Nature, and a Bit of Chaos , host Annie Sargent talks with traveler Gregg Furey about a journey filled with breathtaking discoveries, surprising challenges, and a few classic French travel mishaps. Listen to this episode ad-free Gregg's trip took him to places most visitors overlook. He explored the prehistoric caves o...
Sep 07, 2025•55 min•Ep. 562
Have you ever dreamed of exploring French villages at your own pace? In this episode, Village-Hopping in the Dordogne and Beyond: A Traveler's Guide with Jackie Barnes , host Annie Sargent talks with traveler Jackie Barnes about her recent road trip through one of France's most beautiful regions. Listen to this episode ad-free Jackie shares how she and her family designed a flexible Dordogne road trip that let them visit charming towns, sample local food, and enjoy the landscape without feeling ...
Aug 31, 2025•57 min•Ep. 561
Have you ever wondered how one writer could change French literature and politics at the same time? That's the story we tell in Émile Zola: The Life, Legacy, and Scandal of France's Most Influential Writer . In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent sits down with Elyse Rivin to explore the extraordinary life of Émile Zola. Zola was not just a novelist. He was a social critic, a scandal-maker, and a public voice for justice. His Rougon-Macquart series, including...
Aug 24, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 560
Family Travel to France: Paris, Provence, and a Trip of a Lifetime Thinking about family travel to France? In this episode, host Annie Sargent talks with Lori Belinski about planning — and enjoying — a dream trip for six people, from grandparents to kids. Listen to this episode ad-free They share the highlights of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and hidden gems you might miss. Then they head south to Provence for lavender fields, hilltop villages, and unforgettable markets. Along ...
Aug 17, 2025•54 min•Ep. 559
Have you ever dreamed of owning a home in France? In From Paris to Saumur: Real Estate Dreams and Travel Tips for France Lovers , host Annie Sargent sits down with guest David Palachek to talk about making that dream a reality—and all the adventures along the way. David shares how he and his partner fell in love with Saumur, right in the heart of the Loire Valley. They bought a home in the center of town, surrounded by history, wine culture, and beautiful châteaux. Annie and David swap tips for ...
Aug 10, 2025•59 min•Ep. 558
Ever wondered what it's like to explore the French countryside on horseback and by foot? In From the French Countryside to Classical Concerts in Paris , host Annie Sargent chats with Casey and Molly, two sisters who share their recent adventures through rural France. This episode is packed with off-the-beaten-path ideas for travelers who love nature, history, and cultural surprises. Listen to this episode ad-free The sisters didn't just pass through France—they immersed themselves in it. They st...
Aug 03, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 557
Have you ever dreamed of exploring a fairy-tale town in the French Alps? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled "Discover Annecy: The Little Venice of the Alps," host Annie Sargent and her guest Elyse Rivin take you on a journey to one of the most picturesque places in France. Get the podcast ad-free Annecy is famous for its turquoise lake, charming canals, and Alpine backdrop. But there's more to it than pretty views. Annie and Elyse dive into the town's rich history, i...
Jul 27, 2025•58 min•Ep. 556
Thinking about taking a day trip from Paris? In Episode 555: Day Trip to Chartres from Paris with Patricia Perry, Jennifer Gruenke , and Annie Sargent explore how easy and rewarding it can be to spend a day in this charming French town just an hour from the capital. Listen to this episode ad-free Chartres is best known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stained glass windows and soaring architecture. But there's much more to enjoy! Annie, Patricia, and...
Jul 20, 2025•57 min•Ep. 555
In Discovering the Southwest of France: Tips and Tales for Travelers , host Annie Sargent talks with Catherine McMillan about her recent road trip through some of the most beautiful and underrated parts of France. Catherine traveled by car and took her time exploring the Southwest of France. She shares her experience driving from Bordeaux to Arcachon, Cap Ferret, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Espelette, Sare, Lacanau, and more. Her trip focused on slower travel, scenic drives, good food, and authe...
Jul 13, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 554
Have you ever dreamed of boating through the French countryside? In "Exploring the Canal du Midi on a Rental Boat," host Annie Sargent talks with John and Sally Capets about their week-long adventure on this historic waterway. They rented a boat with friends and spent their days slowly drifting past vineyards, plane trees, and medieval villages in southern France. Listen to this episode ad-free They share what it's really like to rent a boat on the Canal du Midi, navigate the many locks, and liv...
Jul 06, 2025•59 min•Ep. 553
Have you ever wondered how France became the world's perfume capital? In "The Story of Perfume: A Journey Through France's Luxurious Past," host Annie Sargent and guest Elyse Rivin from Toulouse Guided Walks take you on a fragrant journey through French history. They explore how perfume evolved from smoky rituals and religious ceremonies to the luxury bottles we see today. You will learn how Grasse became the heart of perfume making and why Chanel No. 5, Shalimar, and Poison became iconic scents...
Jun 29, 2025•59 min•Ep. 552
Exploring Paris and Strasbourg: Notre-Dame Highlights and Winter Traditions — Have you ever wondered what it's like to visit France in the winter? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , host Annie Sargent chats with Kim Cox, a listener from Minnesota, about her December adventures in Paris and Strasbourg. Get the podcast ad-free They talk about how to enjoy Paris museums like the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie when the weather is chilly and the days are short. Kim ...
Jun 22, 2025•55 min•Ep. 551
What's it really like to walk a long-distance trail in rural France? In this episode of Join Us in France , titled Hiking Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley, host Annie Sargent talks with Rowena Sjovall, a solo traveler from the U.S. walking the GR65 and the scenic Célé Valley route. Get the podcast ad-free Rowena shares her detailed experience hiking the Chemin du Puy, one of France's most popular pilgrimage trails. She talks about trail conditions, signage, and the variety of landscapes—rolling hil...
Jun 15, 2025•59 min•Ep. 550
How do you plan a smooth and memorable trip across France using trains, rental cars, and buses? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , titled Navigating France by Train, Car, and Bus , host Annie Sargent chats with Stephen Nicholson about his 24-day journey through France. Stephen and his wife combined different types of transportation to explore big cities, small towns, and hidden gems—without joining a tour group. They started in Paris and used the OuiGo high-speed train to ...
Jun 08, 2025•52 min•Ep. 549
Exploring the Life and Historical Impact of the Marquis de Lafayette Who was the Marquis de Lafayette, and why does he matter so much in both France and the United States? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , host Annie Sargent talks with Elyse Rivin about the life, legacy, and travels of this iconic figure. Lafayette was more than just a name in a history book—he was a young French noble who risked everything to support the American Revolution and later tried to bring those...
Jun 01, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 548
What makes a trip through France truly unforgettable? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , titled Memorable France - Exploring Historic and Scenic Locations , host Annie Sargent chats with Ken Ives about his 25-day journey through some of the country's most meaningful places. Ken is a thoughtful traveler from California who planned a route filled with both beauty and history. He shares what it was like to stand in the silence of Oradour-sur-Glane, see 29,000-year-old cave ar...
May 25, 2025•57 min•Ep. 547
Thinking about exploring France beyond the usual tourist spots? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , Traveling Through France: Must-See Destinations from Paris to Annecy , host Annie Sargent talks with Linda and Scott Rogers about their recent trip across some of France's most beautiful regions. Get the podcast ad-free They share their experience visiting Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, and Lyon. Each stop brought something special—like biking through Burgundy vineyards, relax...
May 18, 2025•57 min•Ep. 546
