A Multi-Generational Christmas Adventure: France by Road and by Barge, Episode 566

A Multi-Generational Christmas Adventure: France by Road and by Barge, Episode 566

Author: Annie Sargent October 5, 2025 Duration: 1:04:00

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 and cons of traveling this way, from navigating French roads to making quick stops in small towns. If you're planning a family road trip in France, you'll hear plenty of useful tips.

The highlight of the journey was a barge cruise through Burgundy. Heather explains what it's like to live on the water, enjoy slow travel, and see French villages from a different perspective. Barge travel is not something most visitors consider, but it creates a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural discovery.

Food, markets, and holiday traditions played a big part in their trip. Heather shares stories of family meals, favorite French dishes, and the joy of celebrating Christmas in France. You'll hear how French culture adds a special dimension to family gatherings. And also how some advanced planning is required.

This conversation is full of insights for anyone planning a family adventure in France. Whether you're interested in barge cruises, Burgundy, Christmas traditions, or simply exploring France by road, you'll come away with practical ideas.

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast. You'll get weekly conversations with travelers, guides, and locals who share their experiences and advice about exploring real France.

Table of Contents for this Episode

More episodes about Christmas in France

Annie Sargent invites you to pull up a chair for a genuine conversation about all things France. Join Us in France Travel Podcast feels less like a formal guide and more like getting insider advice from a friend who knows the country intimately. Each episode builds a richer understanding of the place, weaving together practical travel tips with deep dives into French culture and history. You’ll hear from local tour guides, get suggestions for savoring regional food and wine, and learn how to navigate your journey with savvy and respect. The discussions go beyond simple itineraries, touching on the social nuances and historical layers that make France so compelling. Whether you're dreaming of a future visit or simply love hearing stories from abroad, this podcast offers an engaging and informative escape. Annie’s passion is contagious, making every conversation feel like a shared discovery of beautiful destinations and everyday French life. Tune in to transform how you think about travel, one story at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Join Us in France Travel Podcast
Podcast Episodes
The French Explorer Who Founded Detroit: Lamothe Cadillac [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:31
The French Explorer Who Founded Detroit: Lamothe Cadillac Did you know the founder of Detroit came from a small village in southwest France? In this episode, host Annie Sargent and guest Kim Loftus dive into the life of…
Experience France Like a Local, Episode 514 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:22
Ever wondered what it's like to live in a small French village? In this episode, host Annie Sargent chats with Steve Hoffman, author of A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France. Steve shares the sto…
Ferdinand Cheval, the Postman Who Built a Palace [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:19
Have you ever heard of a postman who built his own palace? In this episode, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin dive into the incredible story of Ferdinand Cheval, a humble rural postman from France who dedicated 33 years of h…
Mother-Daughter Trip to Lyon and Provence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:43
Planning a mother-daughter trip? Join host Annie Sargent as she chats with Sandy and Melissa Fabry about their unforgettable journey through Lyon and Provence. In this episode, Sandy and Melissa share their experience of…
Discovering Angers on a Day Trip from Paris [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:45
Discovering Angers Have you ever wondered what makes Angers such a great day trip from Paris? In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent is joined by Patricia Perry and Jennifer Gruenke to share their exper…
A New Life in the South of France [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:39
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 F…
A Weekend in Marseille, Episode 509 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:17
Ever thought of spending a weekend in Marseille but not sure where to start? This episode is your perfect guide! Join Elyse Rivin and me, Annie Sargent, as we dive into a fun and insightful conversation about Elyse's rec…
Gourmet Escapades in the Rhône Valley, Episode 508 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:31
Are you planning a gastronomic adventure in France? In this episode, I chat with Jennifer and Emma Jerzyk, who share their delightful mother-daughter trip through the Rhône Valley. They offer detailed tips on wine tastin…
Behind the Scenes at Paris 2024, Episode 507 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:05
Ever wondered what it's like to be a volunteer at the Olympics? In this episode, we dive deep into the Paris 2024 Olympics through the eyes of Patricia Perry, a volunteer who experienced it all firsthand. Patricia shares…
The Charente-Maritime, a Place to Call Home [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:13
Looking for the perfect place to settle in France? Join Susan Hays as she shares her journey to finding the ideal home in the Charente Maritime. From bustling markets in Saintes to the peaceful riverside of Port d'Envaux…