Experience France Like a Local, Episode 514

Experience France Like a Local, Episode 514

Author: Annie Sargent October 6, 2024 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 story of how his American family moved to a tiny winemaking village in the Languedoc region, north of Béziers. 

Get the podcast ad-free

This wasn't your typical expat adventure. Steve and his family wanted to experience France like locals, sending their children to French schools and embracing rural village life. The adjustment wasn't easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. Steve talks about the challenges of integrating into a close-knit community and the joys of slow travel.

The episode dives into what it means to truly immerse yourself in French culture. Steve shares how working in the local vineyards during the grape harvest (vendange) connected him with the land and the people. His experiences with French food and wine opened up a new appreciation for the Mediterranean lifestyle and cuisine.

Whether you're dreaming of moving to France or just curious about life outside the usual tourist destinations, this episode offers a fresh perspective on living in France. You'll learn about the importance of local connections, the French education system, and how staying in one place can reveal the beauty of deep travel.

Tune in to hear Steve's personal stories, insights, and tips on experiencing France like a true local. Listen now and share this episode with other Francophiles!

More episodes about moving to 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
Louise Michel: The Fearless Revolutionary of the Paris Commune [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:12
Paris, 1871. The city is under siege. The government has fallen. And in the heart of the chaos, one woman stands defiant with a rifle in hand. Welcome to Louise Michel: The Fearless Revolutionary of the Paris Commune, an…
Home Exchange Secrets: How to Travel France for Free (Almost!) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:45
Ever thought it might be possible to stay in Paris for 20 nights without paying rent? In this episode, Annie Sargent chats with Liz Van Montfort, a traveler who's cracked the code on home exchange—the savvy way to explor…
Why Southern Brittany Should Be Your Next French Escape [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:18
Episode 580: A Vacation in Southern Brittany with Elyse takes you on a journey through one of France's most enchanting yet underrated regions. Host Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin dive into the hidden treasures of Southern…
Basque Country and Learning French After 50 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:52
In Episode 579: Basque Country and Learning French After 50, host Annie Sargent chats with Deborah Pham Van Xua of Feel Good French for a lively chat about two things you'll love: the vibrant Basque Country and the joys…
The Via Francigena: Slow Travel, History, and Self-Discovery on Foot [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:59
In "Via Francigena: Slow Travel, History, and Self-Discovery on Foot," host Annie Sargent chats with Olivier Andrieu about his incredible 100-day journey along the Via Francigena. Olivier, a former corporate sales direct…
40 Trips to France: Plus a French Christmas Feast with Annie & Elyse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:02
40 Trips to France: Plus a French Christmas Feast with Annie & Elyse opens with host Annie Sargent welcoming back longtime traveler Janice Chung, who has now visited France 40 times. This episode explores why France keep…
Charles de Gaulle: The Man Who Saved France and Shaped Modern Europe [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:08
Ever wondered how one man could shape an entire nation's destiny? In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent and guest Elyse Rivin of Toulouse Guided Walks dive into the extraordinary life of Charles de Gau…