In this episode, we share the whirlwind 3-day journey through the stunning South of France! We explore the vibrant streets of Nice, get lost in the winding medieval alleyways of Eze Village, and relax by the colorful coastline of Villefranche-sur-Mer. We’re sharing the best pharmacy skincare to buy,… In this episode, we share the whirlwind 3-day journey through the stunning South of France! We explore the vibrant streets of Nice, get lost in the winding medieval alleyways of Eze Village, and relax by the colorful coastline of Villefranche-sur-Mer. We’re sharing the best pharmacy skincare to buy, beach clubs to hang at, and places to eat on a French Riviera escape + giving some tips for navigating medical emergencies while in the area.

Nice hotels we recommend:

• ⁠Hotel Splendid⁠ - Central location near the train station and beach 
• ⁠Mercure Hotel⁠ - Good location near the water
•
Let this episode be a lesson…don’t forget your ⁠travel insurance!⁠

Check out our curated list ⁠South of France Experiences⁠ for all the tours and activities we recommend in the French Riviera.

Find a great flight deal to the South of France, or anywhere else, by signing up for ⁠⁠⁠Thrifty Traveler Premium⁠⁠⁠ and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.

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Shop:⁠⁠⁠ Trip Itineraries ⁠⁠⁠⁠&⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Amazon Storefront ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠, and⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.

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Antoine and Annie Ksadzhikyan bought an apartment in Nice, France, without ever seeing it in person. They did it from Los Angeles, over FaceTime, and they have zero regrets. Annie Sargent talks with them about finding the right neighborhood, making an offer in two hours, and securing a French mortga… Antoine and Annie Ksadzhikyan bought an apartment in Nice, France, without ever seeing it in person. They did it from Los Angeles, over FaceTime, and they have zero regrets. Annie Sargent talks with them about finding the right neighborhood, making an offer in two hours, and securing a French mortgage as Americans — no small feat. You'll also hear what daily life looks like when you split your time between LA and the Côte d'Azur. In the magazine segment, Annie shares hard-won tips from a two-week road trip through France on making the most of your time as a visitor. Hit play. Then subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Table of Contents for this Episode


• Today on the podcast: Buying an Apartment in Nice Sight Unseen and Getting a French Mortgage as Americans
• Magazine segment
• Meet Antoine and Annie
• Why Nice Became the Dream
• Cold Emails to Agencies
• Pandemic Pause and Persistence
• Choosing Carré d'Or Location
• FaceTime Tours and The Offer
• Negotiating Terms and Acceptance
• Remote Closing and Loan Hunt
• France vs US Buying Process
• Notaire Power of Attorney
• Trusting a Sight Unseen Purchase
• Living Between Two Countries
• Why Nice Has Everything
• Finding Promenade du Paillon
• Why Nice Keeps Improving
• First Day Rituals in Nice
• Beach Clubs and Market Days
• Europe vs US Lifestyle
• Making Friends and Expat Groups
• Favorite Riviera Villages
• Driving North and Parking Tips
• Buying Property Paperwork
• French Loans Income and Age
• Booking Flights Without Hacks
• To Rent or Keep It Private
• Living Two Lives Abroad
• Patron Thanks And Perks
• Thank you, patrons
• Planning Around Closures
• Ideal Daily Touring Rhythm
• How Long To Stay
• Trustworthy Travel Advice
• Tickets Lines And Timing
• Time Estimates For Visits
• VoiceMap Tours And Future Plans
• Newsletter Credits And Episode 600
• Next week on the podcast
• Copyright More episodes about moving to France





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Annie Sargent talks with Sally Schokman, an Australian solo traveler who spent 23 nights in southern France without a car. Sally took the train everywhere — Bordeaux, Toulouse, Albi, Avignon, Nice, Lyon, and Paris. She shares what surprised her, what she'd do differently, and which museums blew her … Annie Sargent talks with Sally Schokman, an Australian solo traveler who spent 23 nights in southern France without a car. Sally took the train everywhere — Bordeaux, Toulouse, Albi, Avignon, Nice, Lyon, and Paris. She shares what surprised her, what she'd do differently, and which museums blew her away. They also dig into real logistics: booking trains during school holidays, Ouigo versus InOui TGV, solo dining, and handling rainy days like a pro.

Annie also covers a recent change in French security rules at train stations and metro stops. Nothing alarming — just good to know before you go.

This is exactly the kind of honest, practical conversation that makes trip planning easier. Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Table of Contents for this Episode




• 23 Nights in Southern France Without a Car
• Today on the podcast: 23 Nights in Southern France Without a Car
• Podcast supporters
• Magazine segment
• Meet Annie and Sally
• Trip Timing and Length
• Train Travel Adventures
• Solo Travel and Safety
• Getting to Bordeaux
• Ouigo Versus TGV Tips
• Bordeaux Stay and Hotels
• Booking Hotels and Scams
• Rainy Day Bordeaux Highlights
• Weather Changes and Toulouse
• Rain Gear and Museum Plans
• Toulouse Museums and Walks
• Albi Day Trip Essentials
• Market Lunch and Oysters
• Market Lunch Solo
• French Meal Times
• Breakfast Hotel Tips
• Avignon Autumn Magic
• Nice Museums Markets
• Day Trips Monaco
• Lyon Food And Art
• Paris Museum Day
• Marmottan
• Train Travel Wrap Up
• Thank you, Patrons!
• France Trip Services
• New Transit Security Powers
• What It Means for Visitors
• My Cold and Seeing a Doctor
• How French Appointments Work
• Next week on the podcast
• Newsletter and Farewell
• Copyright More episodes about using the trains in France more

From Cajun Country to the French Riviera: Louisiana Meets France takes you on a lively, honest, and sometimes surprising journey through France with Annie Sargent and her guests, Renee Poche and Dixie Poche, a mother-daughter duo from Cajun Country in Louisiana.

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This… From Cajun Country to the French Riviera: Louisiana Meets France takes you on a lively, honest, and sometimes surprising journey through France with Annie Sargent and her guests, Renee Poche and Dixie Poche, a mother-daughter duo from Cajun Country in Louisiana.

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This episode explores what happens when Cajun French culture meets modern France. Renee and Dixie share stories from their first trip together to Nice, Paris, Reims, and small towns along the way. They talk about expectations versus reality. They compare food, daily rhythms, and cultural habits. They reflect on what feels familiar and what feels very different.

You'll hear about staying in a former convent in Nice. Walking the Old Town. Riding elevators up cliffs. Watching the noon cannon fire. There's champagne tasting in the Champagne region, with honest opinions about Reims versus Épernay. There's Versailles, with practical advice on timing and energy levels. There's Paris, explored slowly, on foot, with cafés, cemeteries, shopping, and a night at the Moulin Rouge.

Food plays a big role in this conversation. Annie, Renee, and Dixie compare Cajun boudin and French andouille. They talk about sauces, spices, portions, and meal times. They also discuss how French fashion, walking culture, and city layouts influence how visitors experience France.

This episode is about more than an itinerary. It's about traveling together. It's about mother-daughter dynamics on the road. It's about noticing small details. It's about how shared French roots can feel both close and distant at the same time.

If you're curious about Cajun French culture Louisiana vs France, planning a first trip, or thinking about traveling with family, this episode will resonate. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for practical advice, real conversations, and thoughtful stories about exploring France beyond the clichés.

Table of Contents for this Episode


• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:07] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:36] Magazine segment
• [00:02:23] Nice Reims and Paris with Renee and Dixie Poche
• [00:04:07] Trip Overview and Itinerary Planning
• [00:05:31] Exploring Nice: Favorite Spots and Experiences
• [00:08:47] Cultural Comparisons: Louisiana vs. France
• [00:10:16] Unique Foods and Culinary Traditions
• [00:17:19] Activities in Nice
• [00:19:00] A Day Out in Eze
• [00:24:03] Dog Culture in France
• [00:27:14] Paris Adventures: Walking, History, and More
• [00:28:25] Paris Zoo
• [00:28:44] Exploring La Menagerie and Jardin des Plantes
• [00:30:38] Navigating Paris: Walking and Metro Adventures
• [00:30:57] Aperol Spritz and Parisian Drinks
• [00:31:29] A Day at Versailles: History and Grandeur
• [00:34:11] Moulin Rouge: A Night of Cabaret and Entertainment
• [00:36:25] Wine Tasting in Epernay
• [00:41:02] Mother-Daughter Travel Tips and Reflections
• [00:46:00] Mother's Day in Paris: Shopping and Spontaneity
• [00:47:07] Marker
• [00:48:27] Final Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:49:37] Thank You Patrons
• [00:50:41] VoiceMap Tours Reviews
• [00:52:52] The Last Newspaper Seller in Paris
• [00:54:37] Driving in France: Do NOT Speed!
• [00:56:05] Next week on the podcast
• [00:56:40] Copyright

More episodes about family travel in France more

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 Gu… 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.

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Helena shares how she built her itinerary around France's excellent train and regional bus network, saving money and skipping the stress of driving. She proves that it's possible to travel solo in comfort, even at 70, and enjoy a rich, flexible experience.

Her journey included Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Menton, Èze, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Toulouse, Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Île de Ré, Angers, Chartres, Paris, Fontenay-aux-Roses, Domaine de Sceaux near Paris. Each stop brought new discoveries—historic towns, museums, vibrant markets, and scenic routes. She highlights the value of regional trains (TER) and intercity buses for reaching charming towns and hidden gems.

Annie and Helena talk about booking strategies, the pros and cons of rail passes, and how to keep travel costs low without missing out on memorable experiences. They also share tips for traveling off-season, packing light, and making the most of France's reliable public transit.

If you're curious about car-free travel in France, or you want to stretch your budget while exploring French culture and history, this conversation offers inspiration and practical guidance.

🎧 Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for more stories and tips about traveling in France—whether by train, bus, car, bike, or on foot.

More episodes about traveling solo travel in France

#JoinUsInFrance, #FrancePodcast, #TravelFrance, #FrenchCulture, #ExploreFrance, #DiscoverFrance, #FranceTravelTips, #RealFrance, #Francophile, #FranceAdventures, #DiscoverFranceByTrain, #FranceByBus, #SoloTravelFrance, #BudgetTravelFrance, #HiddenGemsFrance, #TrainTravelTips, #FranceTripPlanning, #SustainableTravel, #ExploreFrenchTowns, #VisitFrance more

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.

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They share… 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.

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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 the way, Lori reveals how they balanced everyone's interests, managed transportation, and found great places to stay.

You'll hear tips on traveling with a multi-generational group, making the most of your time in France, and avoiding common travel pitfalls. Whether you're dreaming of Paris cafés or Provencal sunsets, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration.

Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast so you don't miss future episodes full of travel stories, tips, and cultural insights.

Table of Contents for this Episode




• [00:00:00] Introduction
• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:01] Podcast supporters
• [00:02:18] Annie, Lori and James
• [00:02:45] Family Trip Overview
• [00:03:03] Olympic Adventures
• [00:06:20] Exploring the South of France
• [00:06:32] Fly Fishing Excursion
• [00:08:53] Driving in France
• [00:10:46] Driving in France is Easy
• [00:12:36] Lavender Fields and Local Guides
• [00:16:12] Monaco Aquarium Visit
• [00:17:44] Accommodation Experiences
• [00:20:39] Health Snags
• [00:21:49] Boat Tour in Nice
• [00:22:53] Exploring the Wooden Playground
• [00:23:41] Monaco: The Drink of the Trip
• [00:24:30] Dog Sled Adventure in Fontainebleau
• [00:28:42] Journey to Normandy
• [00:33:28] Navigating Paris with a Group
• [00:33:40] Trip of a Lifetime on a Budget
• [00:40:18] Marker
• [00:42:02] Travel Tips and Reflections
• [00:42:38] AIRALO, virtual SIM APP
• [00:43:54] The Podcast and VoiceMap Tours Are a Great Jumping Off Point
• [00:46:40] Thank you Patrons
• [00:47:10] Carl's Review
• [00:48:49] La Rentrée and Forum des Associations
• [00:51:24] Next Week on the Podcast
• [00:51:48] Copyright More episodes about family travel in France

#FamilyTravelFrance, #ParisWithKids, #ProvenceTravel, #TravelPodcast, #JoinUsInFrance, #ParisTravel, #ProvenceFrance, #TravelTips, #FamilyVacation, #TravelFrance, #PodcastLife, #TravelWithKids, #ExploreFrance, #FrenchCulture, #TravelInspiration, #TravelStories, #PodcastRecommendations, #SlowTravel, #FamilyAdventure, #ParisProvence more

Hear about travel to the French Riviera as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer and children's book author Kimberley Lovato about this region where she has had a pied-à-terre for years.

Why should you go to the French Riviera?

Kimberley says, "Certainly for people who love great hotels and … Hear about travel to the French Riviera as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer and children's book author Kimberley Lovato about this region where she has had a pied-à-terre for years.

Why should you go to the French Riviera?

Kimberley says, "Certainly for people who love great hotels and Michelin star food and gorgeous scenery, you know what's not to love? We have the Cannes Film Festival. But, if you love beaches, hiking, and museums, I hate the cliche 'there's something for everyone', but in this case, it is true. Beaches, food, hotels, small, quaint, charming, and picture-perfect villages. It's all really here, easy to get around."

Arrival & Base

Fly into Nice, the region’s main airport. Base yourself in Nice, Cannes, or Sainte-Maxime, depending on your interests—city, beach, or quieter village.

Day 1–2: Nice and Surroundings

Kimberley Lovato’s Recommended French Riviera Itinerary

...

https://amateurtraveler.com/the-french-riviera/
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Have you ever wondered what it's like to experience France for the first time? In An Australian Family's First Time in France, Annie Sargent chats with Suzie Klatt about her family's unforgettable six-week journey across France and Spain. Suzie, her husband, and their three young children explored i… Have you ever wondered what it's like to experience France for the first time? In An Australian Family's First Time in France, Annie Sargent chats with Suzie Klatt about her family's unforgettable six-week journey across France and Spain. Suzie, her husband, and their three young children explored iconic destinations, savored French cuisine, and embraced the adventure of international travel.

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The episode begins with Suzie sharing her excitement about visiting France for the first time, a dream delayed by the pandemic but worth the wait. She talks about her family's highlights, including a magical six-night stay at Disneyland Paris, a private Seine river cruise, and a Cinderella-style horse and carriage ride in Paris. Suzie offers practical advice for families traveling with young kids, emphasizing the importance of downtime and choosing accommodations with kitchens.

Listeners will love Suzie's passion for French markets, where she discovered the joy of cooking with fresh produce. She also talks about her family's love of simple pleasures, like swimming in Nice, strolling through lavender fields in Provence, and enjoying the magical ambiance of the Bordeaux Water Mirror.

Whether you're planning your first trip to France or looking for family-friendly travel tips, this episode is packed with insights. Don't miss Suzie's heartfelt and relatable journey. Listen now!

Table of Contents for this Episode




• Today on the Podcast
• Magazine Segment
• Introduction and Trip Overview
• First Impressions and Travel Challenges
• Exploring Paris and Disneyland
•  Horse and Carriage ride in Paris
• Boat Ride on the Seine
• Disneyland
• Cannes: Culinary Adventures in France
• Favourite French Dish to Cook
• Going to Supermarkets
• French Restaurant Experience
•  Swimming in Nice and Cannes
• Saint Tropez
• Queing in France vs Spain
• Kids and French Kids in Parks
•  The Tuileries Gardens
•  Luxembourg Gardens
• Relaxing at Chateau de Chambord
• Exploring Bordeaux's Water Mirror
• Accommodation Preferences and Experiences
• Navigating Transportation in France
• Family Visits
•  Visiting the Lavender Fields
• Shopping and Dining in France
• PSG Stadium Tour
• Paralympics and Accessibility
•  Sitting on the Balcony
• Raclette Wrap
• Transportation and Getting Around
• Packing Tips and Skincare Discoveries
• Experiences in Spain
• Barcelona
• Copyright More episodes about family travel in France more

Ever dreamt of buying a home in the South of France? In this episode, we chat with Brian Tolleson, who shares his exciting journey of purchasing and renovating a charming house in Valbonne, a picturesque village in the French Riviera. Brian offers plenty of useful tips about navigating the French re… Ever dreamt of buying a home in the South of France? In this episode, we chat with Brian Tolleson, who shares his exciting journey of purchasing and renovating a charming house in Valbonne, a picturesque village in the French Riviera. Brian offers plenty of useful tips about navigating the French real estate process, working with contractors, and even managing French bureaucracy to get a visa. He also talks about the joys and challenges of moving his dog, Junior, to France and adjusting to life in a beautiful village close to Cannes and Nice.

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Whether you're dreaming of owning a home in France or just curious about what it takes to make such a big move, Brian's story is full of practical advice, personal experiences, and fascinating details. You'll get a real sense of what it's like to live in this stunning part of France. 

Tune in for insider tips and inspiration for your own adventure, or simply to enjoy hearing about someone making their dream of living in the South of France a reality.

Table of Contents for this Episode


• Today on the podcast
• Podcast supporters
• No Magazine segment
• Renovating a Home in France with Brian Tolleson
• How did the project start?
• Buying the Property
• Due diligence
• Renovating the Home
• Food and Shopping
• Finding Contractors and Improving the home
• The Visa Process
• Costs
• Travelling with a Dog
• The Valbonne Area
• Shoutout to Shirley Franklin
• Copyright More episodes about Provence

#France, #FrenchRiviera, #ExpatsInFrance, #PropertyRenovation, #MoveToFrance, #BuyingInFrance, #LivingInFrance, #FrenchProperty, #HomeRenovation, #CoteDAzur, #TravelFrance, #JoinUsInFrance, #ExpatsLife, #RenovationJourney, #FrenchLifestyle more