Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Amber, a long-time vegetarian and Paris resident, reveals her favorite spots for everything from savory Breton galettes at Breizh Café to upscale vegetarian dining at Pristine, where the mushroom tart is legendary. She also highlights cozy wine bars like Le 1745, where you can build your own cheese board, and tiny bakeries like Le Comptoir de la Madeleine, famous for its warm, buttery madeleines. And if you're craving international flavors, she recommends Habesha for Ethiopian feasts or Zia for New Mexican brunch near the Eiffel Tower.

But this episode isn't just about restaurants. Amber and Annie dive into practical advice, like how to spot vegetarian-friendly dishes on French menus (hint: the sprout emoji doesn't always mean meat-free!) and where to shop for gourmet ingredients, like 30-month-aged Comté at Fromagerie Hardouin. You'll also learn what gifts to bring home—think French salt, artisanal butter, or vacuum-packed galettes—that food lovers will adore.

What makes this conversation special? Amber's passion for Paris shines through as she proves that vegetarian dining in the city isn't about sacrifice—it's about discovering delicious, creative meals that celebrate French cuisine without the meat. Annie's warm, engaging style makes it feel like you're getting advice from a trusted friend, and by the end, you'll be ready to book your trip and eat your way through Paris like a pro.

If you've ever wondered how to enjoy French food as a vegetarian, this episode is for you. Hit subscribe to Join Us in France so you never miss an episode, and get ready to explore Paris one delicious bite at a time. Perfect for food lovers, travelers, and anyone dreaming of their next French adventure!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Guest Welcome
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:58] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:24] Magazine segment
• [00:02:17] Vegetarian in Paris with Amber Haggerty
• [00:02:33] Living as a Vegetarian in Paris
• [00:03:21] Challenges of Being Vegetarian in Paris
• [00:04:31] Navigating Menus and Ingredients
• [00:07:58] Traditional French Dishes for Vegetarians
• [00:10:22] Favorite places to buy food in Paris
• [00:14:04] Favorite gifts to bring home
• [00:15:28] Favorite Restaurants and Creperies
• [00:19:35] Wine Bars and Cheese Tasting
• [00:23:27] Sweet Treats and Madeleines
• [00:24:43] Discovering Le Comptoir de la Madeleine
• [00:27:11] Exploring Jean-Paul Hevin Chocolatier
• [00:28:39] L'Avent Comptoir de la Mer: A Seafood Delight
• [00:30:17] Ethiopian Cuisine at Habesha
• [00:32:03] New Mexican Flavors at Zia
• [00:33:09] Vegan Delights at Plan D
• [00:34:29] Italian Salads at Cosi
• [00:35:54] Smash Burgers at DUMBO
• [00:37:03] American Breakfast at Holly Belly
• [00:38:08] Navigating Parisian Food as a Vegetarian
• [00:41:11] Last advice
• [00:41:52] International Food Scene in Paris
• [00:44:10] Final Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:44:59] Thank You Patrons
• [00:46:08] Tips for First-Time Travelers to Europe
• [00:46:46] Hotel Tips for European Travel
• [00:47:22] No toiletries in budget hotel
• [00:47:43] Bring Your Own Washcloth
• [00:48:01] Hotel Rooms are small
• [00:48:45] Turn on the lights
• [00:49:12] For Ventilation open a window
• [00:49:34] No Carpet in most Hotel Rooms
• [00:49:53] Essential Travel Items and Security
• [00:50:22] Understanding Power Converters and Adapters
• [00:51:17] Travel Light
• [00:51:33] Cultural Etiquette in Europe
• [00:52:13] Handling Problems Calmly in Europe
• [00:53:22] Renting and Driving Electric Vehicles in France
• [00:54:49] Charging Your EV in France
• [01:00:50] About the Price of Charging
• [01:01:46] Final Thoughts on EV Travel in France
• [01:02:38] Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
• [01:02:51] Next week on the podcast
• [01:03:15] Copyright

#VegetarianInParis, #PlantBasedParis, #ParisFoodGuide, #VegetarianTravel, #EatLikeALocal, #ParisDining, #MeatFreeFrance, #FoodieFrance, #ParisHiddenGems, #JoinUsInFrance, #FrancePodcast, #TravelFrance, #FrenchCulture, #ExploreFrance, #DiscoverFrance, #FranceTravelTips, #RealFrance, #Francophile, #FranceAdventures, #ParisFoodie

Bobbi and her friends started their journey in Homps, a quiet town near Carcassonne, where they rented a boat from Le Boat. No experience? No problem. The Canal du Midi is beginner-friendly, with easy-to-navigate locks and a relaxed pace. Bobbi shares how they mastered the locks (hint: going downstream first makes it easier!), where to find the best wine (hello, Minervois region!), and why this trip is perfect for groups of four. She even reveals her favorite stops, like Le Somail, home to a legendary bookstore (Le Trouve-Tout du Livre), and Carcassonne, where medieval charm meets modern dining at La Table d'Alais.

You'll learn how to plan your route, what to pack (duffel bags, not suitcases!), and why early mornings at the locks mean shorter waits. Bobbi also dives into the joys of slow travel—biking along the towpath, shopping at local markets, and enjoying picnics on deck with fresh baguettes and cheese. The Canal du Midi isn't just a waterway; it's a journey through history, wine country, and some of France's most authentic villages.

From practical advice on renting boats (expect to pay around $1,200/week) to insider tips on avoiding tourist crowds, this episode covers it all. Whether you're a wine lover, history buff, or just craving a unique getaway, Bobbi's stories will have you ready to book your own canal adventure.

If you love France but want to escape the usual tourist spots, this boat trip is the perfect way to see the country at your own pace. Subscribe to Join Us in France for more hidden gems, travel tips, and stories that bring France to life—wherever you are!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Guest Welcome
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:00] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:30] Bootcamp 2026
• [00:01:44] Magazine part of the Podcast
• [00:02:29] Renting a Boat on the Canal du Midi with Bobbi Heath
• [00:02:47] Planning the Canal du Midi Adventure
• [00:03:38] Starting the Journey: From Carcassonne to Homps
• [00:05:09] A little bit about the Canal du Midi
• [00:06:15] Exploring Carcassonne
• [00:08:33] Navigating the Canal: Locks and Logistics
• [00:13:01] Discovering Le Saunier and Amphoralis
• [00:15:42] Choosing the Canal Route and Wine Enthusiasm
• [00:17:30] Daily Life on the Canal Boat
• [00:21:02] Boat Rentals and Practical Tips
• [00:23:11] Cost and Convenience of Canal Boat Vacations
• [00:26:26] Booking Tips and Seasonal Advice
• [00:26:42] Weather Considerations for Your Trip
• [00:27:32] Cultural Observations on the Canal
• [00:28:06] Navigating the Canal and Starting Points
• [00:30:34] Essential Gear and Preparations
• [00:31:31] Family and Group Travel Tips
• [00:32:54] Dining and Local Attractions
• [00:35:04] Alternative Travel Options
• [00:36:34] Favorite Vacation Ever
• [00:37:55] Is a week too long?
• [00:41:31] Wine Adventures Along the Canal
• [00:44:43] Final Thoughts and Recommendations
• [00:47:36] Thank you Patrons
• [00:48:21] Eiffel Tower Tour Review VoiceMap
• [00:48:43] Latin Quarter Tour Review VoiceMap
• [00:49:13] Discount for Podcast Listeners
• [00:49:49] Tickets for Tourists
• [00:54:07] Tourism… modern or not?
• [00:57:14] Annie's Travels
• [01:00:12] Next week on the podcast
• [01:00:40] Copyright

Van Gogh's life was marked by failure, rejection, and mental health struggles. Elyse explains how these challenges fueled his creativity. As a young man, he tried—and failed—at careers as an art dealer, a preacher, and even a Bible translator. His family didn't know what to do with him, and his father even considered sending him to a mental hospital. But it was his brother, Theo, who became his lifeline. Theo provided financial and emotional support, allowing Vincent to focus on painting. This support gave him the freedom to experiment, leading to the bold, vibrant style we associate with him today.

Paris was a turning point for Van Gogh. Elyse paints a vivid picture of his time there, living in Montmartre, meeting artists like Toulouse-Lautrec and Pissarro, and discovering new techniques. He hated the city at first, but over time, he began to embrace its energy. His move to Arles was another pivotal moment. He dreamed of creating an artists' colony there, but his relationship with Gauguin ended in disaster. Despite the chaos, this period was incredibly productive. He painted masterpieces like Starry Night Over the Rhône and Sunflowers.

After his breakdown in Arles, Van Gogh was committed to an asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Elyse's account of this time is heartbreaking yet inspiring. He continued to paint, creating some of his most famous works, including Wheat Fields and more versions of Starry Night. His final days in Auvers-sur-Oise were marked by relentless painting and a tragic end.

This episode isn't just about art—it's about humanity, perseverance, and the cost of genius. If you love stories that move you, this is a must-listen. Subscribe to Join Us in France on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. And if you're planning a trip to France, don't forget to check out Elyse's Toulouse Guided Walks for an unforgettable experience.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:03] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:33] Bootcamp 2026
• [00:01:47] Magazine segment
• [00:02:25] Vincent Van Gogh with Elyse
• [00:03:38] Van Gogh's Life in France
• [00:04:57] The Universal Appeal of Van Gogh's Art
• [00:05:53] Why do people love his work?
• [00:09:30] Early Life and Family Background
• [00:13:49] Struggles with Mental Health and Career Choices
• [00:14:20] Moving to The Hague
• [00:16:09] Moving to London
• [00:21:06] Moving to Paris
• [00:23:26] Back to England
• [00:28:04] Returning home
• [00:28:55] The Decision to Become an Artist
• [00:29:24] Early Artistic Endeavors and Family Support
• [00:37:18] Van Gogh's Time in Paris
• [00:38:38] Van Gogh's Literary Influences
• [00:39:23] Return to Holland and Artistic Evolution
• [00:40:28] Personal Struggles and Relationships
• [00:42:06] Paris and Artistic Friendships
• [00:45:02] The Move to Arles
• [00:47:24] The Yellow House and Artistic Breakthrough
• [00:52:53] Mental Health Struggles and Saint-Rémy
• [00:59:11] Final Days in Auvers-sur-Oise
• [01:04:27] Legacy and Impact
• [01:09:40] Copyright

#VanGogh, #VincentVanGogh, #ArtHistory, #StarryNight, #Sunflowers, #PostImpressionism, #FrenchArt, #ArtLovers, #ArtistsLife, #TragicGenius, #JoinUsInFrance, #FrancePodcast, #TravelFrance, #FrenchCulture, #ExploreFrance, #DiscoverFrance, #FranceTravelTips, #RealFrance, #Francophile, #FranceAdventures

They dive deep into what the Talent Visa France really is, how it differs from the Freelance Visa for France, and which one makes the most sense depending on your work situation. Daniel explains the legal side in plain language — who qualifies, how long each visa lasts, what documents you'll need, and what kind of income you must show.

Brenna and Jeff share the emotional and practical side of the story — the excitement, the stress, and the paperwork. They also talk about their motivation for starting fresh in France, what they've learned along the way, and why learning French is more important than most people think.

If you've ever wondered how to work remotely from France, apply for a digital nomad visa, or move abroad for a slower, more meaningful lifestyle, this episode will give you a clear, honest picture of what it takes. Annie and her guests make complex information easy to understand and relatable, whether you're planning a move or just curious about life in France.

Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast on your favorite podcast app, on Spotify, or on YouTube — and get practical tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice about traveling and living in France.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:32] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:06] Podcast supporters
• [00:02:06] Magazine segment
• [00:02:52] Guests Welcome
• [00:03:51] Daniel's Journey and Expertise
• [00:04:55] Brenna and Jeff's Background
• [00:05:46] What difficulties are they facing?
• [00:05:58] Passeport Talent
• [00:07:10] Talent Passport Visa Details
• [00:09:15] Financial Requirements and Project Proposal
• [00:18:27] Alternative Visa Options
• [00:19:59] Visa Application Process and Considerations
• [00:25:04] Talent Spouse Visa
• [00:28:33] Bringing over dependents over 18
• [00:30:21] Understanding the 90-Day Rule in France
• [00:31:29] Importance of Learning French
• [00:32:58] Challenges of Opening a French Bank Account
• [00:34:30] Does France Like Online Banks?
• [00:35:40] Visa Requirements and Proof of Address
• [00:36:56] French Language Proficiency for Visas and Citizenship
• [00:40:03] Political and Social Considerations for Moving to France
• [00:42:31] Healthcare and Taxes in France
• [00:44:14] Bilateral tax treaty between France and America
• [00:47:28] Final Thoughts and Services Offered
• [00:51:20] Thank you Patrons
• [00:52:28] VoiceMap Tours Reviews
• [00:53:43] Social Media Presence and Group Management
• [00:56:31] Paris Catacombs Renovation Update
• [00:59:54] Next week on the podcast
• [01:00:15] Copyright

Together, Annie and Katie explore how to make Versailles fun and manageable with children. They talk about stroller-friendly paths, when to visit to avoid crowds, and why the gardens are often a better choice for kids than the formal palace rooms. Katie recommends favorite picnic spots, like near the Grand Canal or the Queen's Hamlet, where families can relax and feel the magic of French history in a natural setting.

The conversation also touches on local life in Versailles — the lively markets, neighborhood cafés, and parks that most tourists miss. Katie shares practical advice about buying tickets, timing your visit, and how to add a touch of sparkle by attending the Grand Ball of Versailles, one of the most extravagant costume events in France.

If you're planning a family trip to Versailles, this episode is packed with insider ideas to make it both educational and enjoyable. You'll come away inspired to slow down, explore beyond the palace walls, and experience Versailles like a local.

🎧 Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for more personal stories, practical tips, and smart itineraries that help you explore France beyond the clichés. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for your tenth, Annie and her guests will help you plan a trip you'll never forget.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:13] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:40] Bootcamp 2026
• [00:02:10] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:47] Welcome Katie Danger
• [00:03:47] Living in Versailles: A Personal Experience
• [00:05:25] Exploring Versailles with Kids
• [00:07:53] The Grand Canal and Outdoor Activities
• [00:09:35] Versailles Gardens: A Year-Round Attraction
• [00:14:56] Dining and Markets in Versailles
• [00:17:14] Extended Stay Recommendations
• [00:18:12] Unique Ways to Explore Versailles
• [00:23:19] Exploring Children's Books at Versailles
• [00:24:10] The Grand Ball: A Night to Remember
• [00:25:55] Versailles' Exclusive Costume Culture
• [00:30:09] Dining and Picnicking in Versailles
• [00:31:28] Bringing a Picnic Into Versailles
• [00:34:56] Versailles Beyond the Castle
• [00:36:29] Living in Versailles: A Personal Perspective
• [00:37:21] Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• [00:41:08] Tour Reviews
• [00:42:16] Podcast listeners discount
• [00:42:49] Seine River flood tests – Hydros 25
• [00:44:38] Robert Badinter
• [00:47:22] France, a mostly rural country
• [00:54:09] Next week on the podcast
• [00:54:56] Copyright

#JoinUsInFrance, #FrancePodcast, #TravelFrance, #FrenchCulture, #ExploreFrance, #DiscoverFrance, #FranceTravelTips, #RealFrance, #Francophile, #FranceAdventures, #VersaillesWithKids, #FamilyTravelFrance, #GrandBallVersailles, #VersaillesPalace, #FamilyTripIdeas, #HiddenFrance, #ParisDayTrips, #TravelWithKids, #FrenchHistory, #CulturalTravel