How to Plan for a Leisurely Trip to France

How to Plan for a Leisurely Trip to France

Author: Annie Sargent March 23, 2025 Duration: 49:10

Ever wondered how to plan a leisurely trip to France? In "How to Plan a Leisurely Trip to France with Carol Handel," host Annie Sargent explores the art of slow travel with guest Carol Handel from Sydney, Australia. Together, they dive into the joys of taking your time to explore France's charming destinations.

Get the podcast ad-free

Carol shares her journey from meticulous trip planning to creating her blog, French Views. She offers insights into selecting the perfect locations for a week-long stay, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture. Discover tips for cycling through picturesque landscapes like Provence and the Pyrenees, and learn how to bring your own bike for a familiar, reliable ride.

Annie and Carol discuss the thrill of experiencing the Tour de France in person. Carol provides practical advice on finding the best viewing spots and enjoying local festivities. They also delve into the logistics of traveling with bikes, including renting a van and finding accommodations with essential amenities.

For those who love Paris, Carol reveals her favorite arrondissements and hidden gems. Her blog features detailed guides, offering a unique perspective on the city's allure. Throughout the episode, Annie and Carol emphasize the importance of slow travel, encouraging listeners to savor each experience and connect with France's culture and people.

Join Annie and Carol as they explore the hidden gems of France and the art of slow travel. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Subscribe to Join Us in France for more immersive travel experiences and tips on making the most of your French adventure.

Table of Contents for this Episode


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
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…
Exploring Paris and Nice with Kids, Episode 505 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:52
What happens when you take your kids to Paris and Nice? In Episode 505, join Annie Sargent as she chats with Julie Coussens about her family's spring break adventure in France. Get the podcast ad-free Julie shares deligh…
Exploring the Aveyron Department, Episode 504 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:11
Are you ready to uncover the hidden gems of the Aveyron? In this episode, Annie and Elyse dive deep into the captivating history and attractions of the Aveyron department. Get the podcast ad-free Learn about the mysterio…