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.
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,…
La Nuit des Châteaux: A Unique French Castle Experience
This October, France’s castles will sparkle under the moonlight as La Nuit des Châteaux returns for its 7th edition. From today to 19 October, nearly a hundred historic estates across the country…
Our Guide to EES, ETIAS & the New EU Border Rules
The big news this autumn is that the way we travel to Europe is undergoing changes. From October 2025, two new systems, EES (Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), will reshape…
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 " is a term that generally refers to the southern regions of the country , where locals have that beautiful “singing accent” and where the game of pétanque originated. To visualise…
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 smart holiday home investment, the Hérault department in southern France ticks every box. This lively corner of the Occitanie region…
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 a hundred 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…
Invest in Ski Property Ahead of the Winter Games in France
The French Alps are set to host the 2030 Winter Olympic Games, which will take place from February 1 to 17, 2030. This Alpine region of France will once again be the epicentre of world-class winter sports, drawing in athletes,…
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. A global leader in various sectors, the country actively seeks experienced professionals and entrepreneurs…
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 history behind the term "passport" dates 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…
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 it’s…
Fête des Lumières: Lyon’s Greatest Celebration Awaits
The Fête des Lumière s (Festival of Lights) is a magnificent spectacle that transforms the city of Lyon into a mesmerising urban landscape of illumination. Held annually, the festival celebrates the city's history…
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 large choice of diverse regions and a rich historical and cultural heritage,…
Advice and Equipment for Winter Driving in France
As winter approaches, the freshly snow-covered Alps become a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts. Ski resorts in some areas have decided to open earlier this year, offering visitors an extended winter season. However,…
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 families and foreigners wanting to make the move and enjoy the good life in this wonderful country. In this guide,…
Considerations when Importing a Car from America
The tax system for car and vehicle purchases in the US varies from state to state and differs from that in France and Europe. Importing a car from the USA or another non-European Union (EU) country for driving in France…
Guide to School and Public Bank Holiday Dates in France
French schools have five holidays during the year: All Saints' autumn break, Christmas , winter break, spring holiday (Easter), and the summer holiday. These breaks are usually two weeks long, except for summer holidays,…
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…
Follow the Steps of Emily in Paris, the City of Love
Following the release of the much-acclaimed Netflix TV series Emily in Paris , we have witnessed an increase in enquiries from Americans asking about the City of Love (and Light), and where to buy a home here. Valentine’s…
Our Guide to Telephone Numbers and Area Codes
This new article is about phone numbers in beautiful France , all telephone numbers and how to use them. France uses a 10-digit system with the first two digits indicating a mobile phone, a non-geographic number or…
Guide for Australian Citizens Buying Property in France
This is our Essential Guide for Australian buyers wanting to buy property or invest in real estate in the main cities of France. We have witnessed increased interest from Australians looking to buy property in beautiful…
