Travel Information
Smart travel transforms a trip. This section offers itineraries, transport tips and local secrets to explore France like an insider. Whether by train, car, or foot, we help you navigate with ease and discover the detours that make journeys unforgettable.
What Is the Current Time in France?
What time is it in the French capital? Right now, precisely? France plays a key role in worldwide travel, commerce, and cultural interactions. Covering approximately 1,000 kilometres from north to south and east to…
Everyday Words: Improve Your French Language Skills
We've put together this diverse selection of practical everyday French expressions, words, and verbs to help enhance your language skills. So, whether you’re an expat living in France or just looking to boost your…
France’s Famous Fans: The Stars Who Call It Home
There’s just something special about France , the romance, the delicious cuisine, the culture, and breathtaking landscapes, that easily captures hearts. Did you know that Hollywood stars, musicians, and worldwide icons…
A Night at the French Museum: La Nuit des Musées
This year, the 22nd edition of La Nuit Européenne des Musées will take place on Saturday, May 23rd, across France and Europe, with over 1,300 museums in France alone participating in this annual celebration…
Exploring the Medieval Town of Sarlat in the Dordogne
Few regions in France capture the imagination quite like the Dordogne. It’s a landscape of storybook villages, stone castles, and lush river valleys, where the past feels close enough to touch. There are a thousand…
How French Postal Codes Really Work
Postal codes are more than a series of numbers or letters; they are a window into a country’s geography, history, and even its culture. In France, the code postal is a five-digit system that organises mail delivery…
Paris Uncovered: From Lutetia to Paname
If you've recently moved to or travelled to Paris, chances are you already know it as the " City of Light " or the romantic "City of Love." To really feel the heartbeat of this beautiful city, take a moment to look beyond…
The Expat’s Guide to French Mobile Plans
Welcome to France ! If you're moving here, you'll probably find that dealing with French bureaucracy can be quite... challenging, which is expected. And if you’re buying a property or starting a new job, you will need…
Complete Guide to French Residence Permits (2026)
France remains one of the most sought-after destinations for individuals and families from around the world who wish to live, work, study, or retire in a country known for its incredible culture and quality of life. Introduction…
Exciting Rail News for Travellers and Homeowners
The way we travel between the UK and France is evolving, bringing excellent news for explorers, second homeowners, and international property investors. Eurostar’s upcoming Celestia trains, scheduled for 2031, will…
Mont-Saint-Michel: France’s Iconic Island of Legends
Few places in France capture the imagination like Mont-Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island in the French region of Normandy, surrounded by dramatic tides that transform the landscape twice a day. Nicknamed…
La Nuit des Châteaux: A Unique French Castle Experience
In October, France’s castles sparkle under the moonlight as La Nuit des Châteaux returns. For its 7th edition, nearly a hundred historic estates across the country and Europe opened their doors after dark, inviting…
Our Guide to EES, ETIAS & the New EU Border Rules
Two new systems, EES (Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), are reshaping border controls for UK citizens and non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Zone, including to France,…
Le Tour de Provence – Discover the True Heart of the South
Provence isn’t just the sunniest region of France ; it’s an experience designed to awaken all your senses. With rolling lavender fields, charming markets and a rhythm of life steeped in authenticity, Provence…
Where is Le Midi? Is it in Provence or Occitanie?
In France, " le Midi " generally refers to the southern regions of the country , where locals have that beautiful “singing accent” and where pétanque originated. To visualise it in your mind, you…
Ponts, Viaducts, French Bank Holidays and Cheese
This month, our resident writer, Beth, tells us about May in France, affectionately called "le mois du gruyère" by some, a delightful French expression that captures the essence of the month. Literally, it translates…
10 Reasons to Buy in Hérault, the Heart of Languedoc
Whether you're dreaming of a quiet life under the Mediterranean sun or looking for a holiday home investment, the Hérault in southern France ticks every box. This lively corner of Occitanie , formerly known as Languedoc,…
Over 100 Interesting and Unusual French Facts
France is filled with charm and intrigue, from the busy streets of Paris to the scenic Bordeaux vineyards and the bee-filled lavender fields in Provence . In this article, we invite you to explore over 130 fascinating…
Find your Dream Dordogne Home near a Fairway
The Dordogne region in southwest France is a golfer's paradise, offering a beautiful mix of amazing landscapes, challenging courses, quality greens, cultural heritage and superb facilities. If you’re a keen golfer…
Our Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Make Aude your Home
The Aude is a beautiful department of Occitanie in southwest France, named after the river running through its heart. It is known for its diverse landscapes, great food, tasty wines, and fantastic history. Our family…
Information about Talent Passports and Tech Visas
France has long been a popular destination for skilled and creative individuals from the four corners of the world. As a global leader across various sectors, the country actively seeks experienced professionals and entrepreneurs…
Dancing with the Winds of Provence in southern France
France's beauty is deeply connected to the sea, and its winds play an essential role in shaping its soul and character. The legendary Tramontane and the Mistral stand out among these winds for their ferocity and mischievousness.…
A Journey Through the French GR Hiking Trail Network
For more than seventy years, the white and red painted marks that symbolise the long-distance hiking routes in beautiful France , known as "GR", have been a symbol of unity for all long-distance adventure enthusiasts.…
French Passport Ranked World's Most Powerful
The term "passport" dates back to the 15th century, when it was first introduced in France . The word "passport" has its roots in the French language, where it is referred to as " passeport ", which literally translates…
Our Essential Guide to Finding and Buying a Car in France
So, you're ready to hit the open road and explore France in style – French style! However, buying a car as a foreigner or expat living in France can be challenging, especially if you’ve recently arrived and are…
Fête des Lumières: Lyon’s Greatest Celebration Awaits
The Fête des Lumière s (Festival of Lights) is a magnificent spectacle that transforms Lyon into a mesmerising urban landscape of illumination. Held annually, the festival celebrates the city's history and culture…
Discover the Beauty of the French Alps (enjoy the video)
Tucked away in the heart of Europe, surrounded by the beauty of snow-capped mountains and green valleys, lies the stunning Alpine region. This vast and picturesque area, comprising Savoie , Haute-Savoie , Isère…
Discovering France: Our Guide to Planning your Holiday
Days are getting shorter, and the heating is back on, indicating that it's time to start planning your next summer holiday in beautiful France . With a wide choice of diverse regions and a rich historical and cultural heritage,…
Advice and Equipment for Winter Driving in France
With winter in full swing, the freshly snow-covered Alps become a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts. Ski resorts in certain areas decided to open earlier this season, offering visitors an extended winter.…
Guide to Health Insurance for Long Stay Visas in France
Starting a new life in France is an exciting prospect, but many aspects require careful consideration for individuals and families who want to make the move and enjoy the good life in the country. In this guide, we provide…
Considerations when Importing a Car from America
Importing a car from the USA or another non-European Union (EU) country for driving in France involves several steps and considerations, including taxes, import duties, vehicle compliance, and car insurance . Importing foreign…
Guide to School and Public Bank Holiday Dates in France
French schools have five holidays during the year: All Saints' Day, Christmas, winter break, Easter (spring holiday) and summer holiday in early July. These breaks are usually two weeks long, except for summer holidays,…
Your Escape to Bright Sunshine
Southern France has long been a dream destination for people seeking a beautiful place to call home. With its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and warm climate , it's no wonder that so many people aspire to own…
Best Resorts to Buy Ski Property in the French Alps
France is the leading ski destination for Brits, with around 10 million British tourists visiting the French Alps each year. The Alps are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, world-class ski resorts, and a…
Reasons to Visit and Buy Property in Avignon
Avignon, once the Capital of the Christian world, still boasts an impressive architectural heritage that is now part of UNESCO World Heritage. Visitors flock from far and wide to discover the Palace of the Popes, the Pont…
Provençal Living in Vaucluse
Why you should consider buying a property in Vaucluse ? Considered the beating heart of Provence, Vaucluse is a French region known for its world-class heritage sites, beauty, food and culture. Capturing some of the most…